Description
A fine pair of pottery pearlware figures of Elijah and the Widow of Zarapeth with fine attention to detail and good quality enamel decoration. The pair have been attributed to the “Patriot” group of figures Staffordshire England.The decorative bocage hoops with profusion of flowers makes this one of the most appealing figures of this popular subject.
This biblical pairing have dual religious and social significance. The Old Testament in First Kings tells of Elijah’s meeting with the Widow and her son and the ensuing miracles. Poverty, exacerbated by the Napoleonic Wars was a feature for many working folks and the miracles ,the replenishment of the oil and flour to feed the widow and her boy, and the provision of sustenance to Elijah brought by the ravens provided inspirational comfort and hope.