Vintage 1980s Reissue of Seated Duiker Figurine Designed by John Skeaping for Wedgwood in 1927

APPROX. DIMENSIONS: 6.75″ long x 3.75″ wide x 5″ tall

HISTORY (from online sources):

JOHN RATTENBERRY SKEAPING (1901 – 1980) was an English sculptor and equine painter and sculptor (his life-size statue of Secretariat is exhibited at the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame in Saratoga Springs, NY).  Born in Essex in 1901, he studied art and eventually became a scholar at the Royal Academy School.  In 1924 he won the Prix the Rome, which took him to live and work in that city where he married the sculptress Barbara Hepworth.  Upon his return in 1926 he was introduced to Frank Wedgwood, Wedgwood’s managing director.  After visiting the factory, Skeaping was commissioned to model a series of animal studies for which he was paid £100.  The series consisted of 14 figures, 10 of which eventually went into production at the end of 1927.  These figurines included Tiger and Buck, Fallow Deer, Polar Bear, Monkeys, and both Standing and Seated Duiker—a type of deer—and Buffalo figure based on an African buffalo calf that had been born at the London Zoo in 1927.  A 1930s Wedgwood advertising brochure described how “The excellence of these animals proves how amply Mr. Skeaping’s studies of animal life have been repaid.”  The animal figures were produced in black basalt and also in earthenware bodies applied with a variety of matt and colored glazes, including matt white Moonstone and matt straw.  In 1987 six of the subjects were reissued in Queen’s Ware, enabling a new generation to enjoy these striking sculptures.

QUEEN’S WARE – Wedgwood’s enduring appeal among the world’s royal families and heads of state began with Queen Charlotte (1744 – 1818), who ordered a set of cream-colored earthenware.  It pleased her so much that Josiah Wedgwood was granted permission to style himself as “Potter to Her Majesty” and call his innovative creamware “Queen’s Ware.”

SHIPPING: shipping included for street addresses within contiguous United States.

A WORD ABOUT VINTAGE: Our inventory consists of vintage or antique items which are more than 20 years old, usually used or pre-owned, unless marked “new old stock.”  As such, there may be signs of wear and age, which we will disclose to the best of our ability.  Nevertheless, we encourage you to carefully read the description and view the photos, especially when purchasing a gift.  All items ship with tracking and insurance, and although we do not accept returns, we will offer a refund in case of breakage or damage during transit, upon receipt of sufficient proof.  

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