Staffordshire pottery figure group of the Pig Tithe pearlware glaze early 19th century

Dated: 1820 Staffordshire England

A good example of a pottery figure group of the Pig Tithe with interesting bocage, fine enamels,quality modelling and well applied pearlware glaze. The bocage and base lead to a Patriot Group attribution.The bocage and base decoration are special features on this figure group. NOTES; The figure depicts Farmer Hob ( holding a pig )and his wife (holding newborn child) meeting the local vicar. The church rented land and the common practise was to levy a "tythe" as part of the rent. This practise was very tough on the poor and there was a national feeling that it should be abolished. The group captures the moment when Hob's wife offers the baby as part of their produce and states "If you do not take the child there will no handing over of the pig". Hence the rather startled expression on the clergyman's face. This practice imposing a tythe eventually diminished and was replaced by other devices such as ground rent.

Dimensions: 8.5 inches high, 7.5 inches wide, 4 inches long

Current Condition: Restored, some bocage leaves, handle of basket, wifes hands , base of stick and re-touched enamels.

Literature: Myrna Schkolne, Staffordshire Figures 1780-1840 Volume 1 page 246 figure ref. 108.3

£1175    $1586