Γλυπτό - 37.5 cm - Βικτωριανό παριανό κεραμικό αγαλματάκι «Nature», φιγούρα μίας κλασικής παρθένου, τέλη του 19ου αιώνα

Victorian Parian Ware "Nature" figurine of a classic maiden partially covered in a draped robe, with a nest of birds, pilgrim flask and cornucopia full of fruits and grain at her feet. Signs of wear and discolouration in places, chips to the base. Height 37.5cm

The Maiden as a Protector: In Victorian iconography, a classical female figure looking over or protecting a mixed nest of young fowl is often an allegory for "The Foster Mother" or "Nature Nurturing All". It highlights the feminine virtue of universal care, extending protection to both wild and domestic creatures. The Grain (wheat/barley) & fruits are the ultimate symbol of Harvest and Autumn. It signifies that the growing season is complete and the earth has provided its bounty.

Parian ware is an unglazed, white bisque porcelain developed in the 1840s in Staffordshire, England. Named after the Greek island of Paros, famous for its fine white marble, it was specifically designed to imitate carved marble statues. First created around 1845 by the Mintons pottery factory, though Thomas Battam and other firms like Copeland and Wedgwood quickly followed.
Matte finish with a subtle, smooth sheen perfectly mimics the look of finely sculpted marble.