STAFFORDSHIRE FIGURE GROUP " PIG TYTHE. CIRCA 1815/20

Reference: 5694

Dated: c. 1815 to c. 1820 Staffordshire

Antique Staffordshire figure group known as the Pig Tythe group.
This model is exceptionally well modelled 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: 7.00 inch high

Medium: antique staffordshire pearlware figures pottery ceramic

Provenance: Alistair Sampson London,
USA collection.

Literature: Myrna Schkolne in her book People,Passions,Pastimes and Pleasures devoted chapter 31 to Tithing, several figures are illustrated.

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