The Reading Maid (Obadiah Sherratt)

Height:  12 Inches / 30.5 cm

Reference: Myrna Schkolne Staffordshire Figures 1780-1840 Vol 1, Page 86-87, Fig 25.3 (Similar)

A superb original pearlware table base figure of a village maid reading a book, titled ‘THE READING MAID’  this example is attributed to the famous Staffordshire potter Obadiah Sherratt. This delightful figure finds her seated against a fantastic tree bocage in full bloom, not often found with this unusual triple flower decoration. Her arms are outstretched holding a large open book, possibly a bible, as the decorator has attempted to write the words ‘Chap’ on the open pages which rests on her lap, her hair has been bunched up in a bun and fixed with a hair comb. Wearing a short sleeved dress richly patterned and painted in meticulous detail with vibrant overglaze enamels and flower decoration typical of known Sherratt designs. This example has been superbly painted throughout, it was made in Staffordshire, England c1820 and is one of the best decorated of its type I have seen, in restored condition. The figure provides a social insight into the importance given to children’s education in the early years of the 19th century. There is a professional invisible repair to the neck and three bocage tips restored, no other damage, repairs, or restoration. A truly beautiful example.