RARE Antique 19th Century English Jackfield Black Porcelain Staffordshire Spaniel Dogs, Set of 2, 15” and 11”

This is an absolutely stunning set of 2 antique Jackfield black glazed porcelain Staffordshire spaniel mantel dogs made in England, circa 1870. Both are left facing and different heights but look exquisite paired together as a set. Both dogs are considered quite rare for their front separated legs and white painted sgraffito eyes which give them an almost other-worldly look. The larger dog is extremely RARE and impossible to find in this size standing at a magnificent 15" tall. His sideways stance (most mantle dogs face forward), his finely detailed face, white painted sgraffito eyes, gold gilding in almost perfect condition and separated front leg make him more valuable and highly collectable. The smaller dog stands at 11 tall, has the same painted white sgraffito eyes, separated front leg, finely detailed gold gliding in excellent condition and is also considered rare for these reasons. Both dogs have firing holes on the backside indicative of antique Staffordshire dogs. 

Jackfield Ware was produced by applying a glossy black glaze over a red earthenware body. The process was believed to have originated in the Shropshire town of Jackfield, England, hence the name. It has been remarked that Jackfield spaniels became popular during the decade that followed Pince Albert's death in 1861 and may have been a reflection of the black attire that Queen Victoria wore from that time on.

• Sourced in Round Top from a highly reputable antiques dealer who buys direct from England
• Larger dog measures 15" x 10" x 7" and has a small hairline crack on one side of the head/ear but does not affect integrity nor does it detract from appearance. There are a few tiny scuffs/nicks (see pics) on backside. Price reflects these small imperfections.
• Smaller dog measures 11" x 9" x 6" and has no apparent chips or cracks.
• Both dogs are in overall excellent condition for their age at 154 years old
• The closest comp I could find was for a pair of 12.5" tall dogs from the same time period that sold for $1950. I was unable to find a 15" tall Jackfield dog anywhere online making this one a true unicorn.
• For reference, Schiffer book "Staffordshire Spaniels" by Adele Kenny notes that this particular type of dog is very rare and valued a 12" pair at $895-$995. Book was printed in 1997.