Welsh Gold Prospector

Stock No: 002309

Height: 9.5 Inches / 24 cm

Reference: Harding Book 3, Page 171, Fig a1993

Price: £395.00

This exquisite and rare figure depicts a woman engaged in the meticulous task of panning for gold, standing gracefully barefoot atop a delicately gilt-lined round base. In her left hand, she holds a shallow pan, intricately detailed to showcase the contours and depth necessary for her labor. In her right hand, she wields a sturdy spade, an essential tool for her mining endeavors, while a carefully crafted rake lies at her feet, symbolizing the varied methods of gold extraction.

Adorning her head is a wide-brimmed hat embellished with a striking plume, complemented by a flowing scarf that adds an element of elegance to her appearance. She wears a fitted bodice and a full, aproned skirt that reflects the fashion of her time, grounding her in the Victorian era.

It has been proposed that this figure embodies the spirit of a Welsh goldminer, a nod to the historical context of gold mining in Wales during the Victorian period. The Gwynfynydd mine, a significant site of gold extraction, was discovered in 1860, which coincides with the estimated date of this enchanting piece, making it not only a beautiful decorative item but also a valuable historical artifact.

Despite a professional repair made at the waist, this figure is in fine condition, demonstrating the care taken to preserve its artistry and significance.