Early Staffordshire figures, in very many cases, have a "mate." I deliberately avoid the word "pair" because often the figures are companion pieces rather than the other side of a true pair. Thus, the "Sherratt" christening and wedding groups below were designed to stand side by side. They are perfect companion pieces, but either one looks just fine standing on its own.
Courtesy Christie's.
I am always on the look-out for companion pieces, figures that should or could stand side by side. Of course, not every Staffordshire figure group has a companion, but recently I have had a run of luck. For example, I have always thought the tiny couple below to be one of those little gems that stand alone. I know of only two examples, so it really is a rare teeny treasure. It is about 5 inches high.
To my surprise, I recently found the even rarer companion piece, below. As you see, here the figures are reversed, so I think these two models were designed to stand side by side. Note that on this version, the group was made without a handbag on the ground.
| If this little couple above look familiar it is because you have probably seen them before but in a different setting. Figures from the same molds are used in New Marriage Act Groups, as you see alongside. |  Courtesy John Howard |
I was very happy recently to complete another twosome. My THE POOR SOLDIER, below, finally got a THE POOR LABORER to stand beside him. Yay!
Of course, there seem to be figures that seem to be true pairs rather than companions. I have owned the tiger on the left for quite a while, so I was pleased to find the tiger on the right to complete the twosome. I attribute these to John Hall.
But are these tigers a true pair or are they companion figures? In the case of quite a few feline models, I suspect that the potters sold the animals individually rather than as pairs. The buyer could buy one or two, as he or she wished. In the case of the Hall felines, it was possible to make your pair in assorted ways. Would you prefer a tiger and leopard side by side? Not a problem!
Courtesy Private Collector, USA
! I have noticed this mix-and match phenomenon with the array of lions made by the "Patriotic Group" pot bank (See Staffordshire Figures 1780-1840, Volume 3.)
I am not saying that EVERY figure has a companion--but I am surprised at how very many do. And of course finding a companion when one least expects it is one of the true joys of collecting.
I am not saying that EVERY figure has a companion--but I am surprised at how very many do. And of course finding a companion when one least expects it is one of the true joys of collecting.
