Figurines of figures and groups from various Staffordshire potteries (England)

Crewenna Potteries was a pottery studio  in Nelson, New Zealand, established in 1962 by Harry and May Davis. The couple had previously run a pottery in Cornwall, England, and they brought their skills and experience with them to New Zealand. The company was known for its hand-thrown and decorated ceramics. The Davises used a variety of techniques, including stoneware, porcelain, and slipware. They also experimented with different glazes, creating a wide range of colors and finishes.

The Davises' pottery was popular with both collectors and the general public. They exhibited their work in galleries and museums around New more... Zealand, and they also sold their work through a network of retailers. Crewenna Potteries closed in 1972, but the Davises' work continues to be admired by collectors and ceramics enthusiasts. Their pottery is held in the collections of the Auckland Museum, the Canterbury Museum, and the Sarjeant Gallery in Whanganui. less...

Perhaps the most famous pottery figures of the last hundred years or so, are the Staffordshire flat backs, the description "flat back" indicating they were not detailed on the reverse as they were designed to stand against a wall, not be seen in the round.

The numerous large and small Staffordshire potteries, estimated at over 1,000 by the end of the 19th century, produced a vast range of coloured and glazed earthenware figures.

The range included rustic, allegorical and biblical scenes, as well as famous people, such as Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, or Bonnie Prince Charlie and Flora more... McDonald, which were made either as separate pieces or as pairs on one stand.

Sometimes the characters were mounted like Lord Raglan and Marshal Arnaud. There were also representations of The Soldier's Farewell and The Soldier's Return, and there were many portrayals of dogs, especially King Charles spaniels, greyhounds, pugs, and Pekingese.

These Staffordshire figures were made right up to 1900 or so. Most Staffordshire is unmarked, and as they were produced in vast quantities, the figures do not command high prices in the marketplace unless the details are good or if it is known that only a limited number were made. As well, recent copies have been made which has depressed the price. less...