Fine Pair Minton Porcelain Sweetmeat Figures With Baskets Models 84 85

A fabulous pair of Minton porcelain sweetmeat figures, model numbers 84 and 85, imaginatively titled "Male standing with basket" and "Female Companion". As with all Minton figures from this period the level of detail in both modelling and enamel decoration is superb including very finely textured moulding on the baskets, his napsack and her sun hat. Very delicate individually formed ribbons and the incredibly detailed and finely painted decoration to the clothing and even inside the baskets along with gilt the highlights is exceptional. Unmarked, c.1830-1835.

Reference: "Minton Pottery & Porcelain Of The First Period 1793-1850" by Godden, page 93 and plate 141.

The male measures 21cm (8 1/4") high and 11.5cm (4 1/2") by 10cm (4") wide. The female measures 20cm (7 7/8") high and the same width dimensions. 

Condition is very good with some minor restoration which has been completed to the very highest standard and most of which I have only been able to detect under high magnification and bright illumination and are as close to invisible as you are likely to find. The male has been repaired at the neck, his left wrist and one handle of the basket. A small section of the brim of his hat has been restored. He also has a tiny loss to the tip of a finger hovering over the basket. The female has also been repaired at the neck and the posy in her left hand. A few small chips to the flowers in the posies. Very minor handling wear, the enamels and gilding are lovely and bright.