ceramic cats & Pups pairs

SWest Midlands from 1720 to 1920 as an alternative to pricier Wedgewood. Made of earthenware and sold in pairs, dogs were modeled after Poodles, Dalmatians, Greyhounds, Pugs, Collies—and most popular, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, the breed called “the Comforter” by its namesake, King Charles I of England. Queen Victoria’s constant childhood companion, Dash, inspired “fireplace dogs,” a status-symbol that guarded the mantlepieces of Victorian bourgeois homes.Three to 12-inches tall, white with rust, copper luster, or black patches, “Disraeli Spaniels” had curls and rare “Jackson” or “Jackfield” Staffordshire dogs were all-black. Dogs and cats adorn spill vases, ring holders, jars and Staffordshire figurines. ■