Antique Staffordshire Pottery Tithe figure group with bocage c1820

Reference: 3510

Dated: c. 1820 Staffordshire English

Staffordshire pearlware pottery Pig Tithe Figure group with interesting bocage.
Early 19th century period.

This model is exceptionally well modeled and decorated with care with enamels.
The figure depicts Farmer Hob ( holding a pig )and his wife with (holding newborn child) meeting the local vicar. The church rented land and the common practise was to levy a "tythe" as part of the rent. This practise was very tough on the poor and there was a national feeling that it should be abolished. The group captures the moment when Hob's wife offers the baby as part of their produce and states "If you do not take the child there will no handing over of the pig". Hence the rather startled expresion on the clergyman. This practise imposing a tythe eventually diminished and was replaced by other instruments such as ground rent.

Dimensions: 6.00 inch high

Medium: pearlware pottery bocage glaze ceramic

Current Condition Restored to bocag and handle of basket.

Provenance: Private collection of a lady in Hertfordshire England

Literature: Myrna Schkolne Chapter 30 TITHING People, Passions, Pastimes and Pleasures Staffordshire Figures 1810-35

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