Victorian, circa 1870 Staffordshire spill vase modeled as a boy who is kneeling on the ground with the paw of a lion resting in his lap. Bright gilt decoration to rococo base and rim of spill. Good molding, colors and decoration. Creamy glaze with blue tinge. The figure is thought to be Macombo, the ''Lion King'', who was a sailor that became as famous as Van Amburgh and Crockett. He once entered a cage with two tigers fighting each other inside, armed only with a whip. The tigers attacked him leaving him badly mauled, but Macombo managed to get them into separate cages with the help of assistants. His name came from a Zulu chieftain who fought against the British. This particular piece is thought to be a representation of ''Androcles and the Lion'' where Macombo is removing a thorn from the lion''s paw. Similar piece illustrated figure a3346B, page 299, Schiffer''s ''Victorian Staffordshire Figures 1835-1875'' Book 3, by A.& N. Harding. Generally good. No cracks. No flakes. Gilt slightly rubbed. Kiln effects: minor bruise to reverse. Overglazed manufacture chip to front of foot rim. Restored chip to shredded clay. Repaired hairline to mold line running over the lion''s head, face and down chest. Retouching of paint losses to spill interior and Macombo''s hat. 8.5ins high

Antique Porcelain & Pottery
Antique Vases