Grapplers

 

Stock No: 001536

 

Height:  11.5 Inches / 30 cm

 

Reference: Harding Book 2, Page 289, Fig 3301

 

Price: POA

 

A group figure of two men wrestling on a titled base with raised gilt capitals, both naked and tied together with a belt, a large sheet is draped over the shoulder and between their bodies, each holds the others wrist and each hold a knife. Grappling is an ancient Scandinavian form of combat where two men were bound together and fought to the death with knives. The source for the figure was an engraving of the statue by J. P Molin shown at The London International Exhibition of 1862, it now stands in front of The National Museum in Stockholm. It was published in the ‘Illustrated London News‘ on the 1st November 1862. This is one of the most desirable of all Victorian Staffordshire figures, it is the best example I have ever seen, in mint perfect original condition, no damage, repairs, or restoration c1862.