Figure
Samson, Edme et Cie
Category
Ceramics
Date
1870 - 1900
Materials
Glazed porcelain
Measurements
195 mm (H)
Place of origin
Paris
Order this imageCollection
Greenway, Devon
NT 118828.2
Summary
One of a set of six Samson Commedia dell'Arte figurines, late 19th century, minor damage.
Full description
This set of figurines was produced by the Samson factory in Paris which was established in 1845 by Edmé Samson, a famous copyist of pottery and porcelain. Samson produced pieces inspired by and copied from the work of famous factories including Chinese export porcelain, Meissen, Sèvres, Chelsea, Derby and all the major factories of England, France and Germany, as well as tin-glazed earthenware or faience.The figurines represent characters from the Commedia dell'Arte, the popular improvised comedy which flourished in Italy from the 16th to the 18th centuries and influenced theatre throughout Europe, especially France.
Provenance
F.A.Miller purchased the set from J.O.Donoghue in May 1881. Introduced to the Property by Agatha Christie Mallowan. Inventory taken just before the house was requisitioned by the American Navy 1942 p66
Makers and roles
Samson, Edme et Cie , potter
