Staffordshire Pottery Cat Value Guide

These hand-painted Staffordshire Pottery Cats are quintessential examples of late Victorian and Edwardian folk art from England's famous North Staffordshire region. Originally designed as mantle decorations, this specific tuxedo cat model seated on a red tasseled cushion represents a classic symbol of domestic prosperity and comfort.

What affects the value of Staffordshire Pottery Cat?

• Condition of the enamel paint, particularly the delicate facial features and the gold or red accents on the cushion tassels.
• The presence of a matching pair, as these figurines were often sold in sets and are more valuable when kept together.
• Overall structural integrity, specifically looking for chips on the ears or repairs to the base and cushion corners.
• Clarity of the tuxedo markings and the vibrancy of the hand-painted glaze colors compared to typical examples.

How to Identify Staffordshire Pottery Cat?

• Check for the 'flat back' design, as these figurines were specifically molded to be viewed from the front while resting against a wall.
• Look for hand-painted enamel details on the tuxedo markings and the distinct red glaze of the tasseled cushion.
• Inspect the base for a small vent hole, which was necessary to prevent the ceramic from exploding during the firing process.
• Examine the glaze for fine crazing, which is a common and expected characteristic of authentic 19th and early 20th-century Staffordshire pottery.

History of Staffordshire Pottery Cat

Staffordshire cat figurines emerged as popular mantle decorations in 19th-century England. Produced by various potteries in the North Staffordshire region, these charming folk-art figures were designed to be viewed from the front and were often sold in pairs. The 'cat on a cushion' model is one of the most recognizable designs, symbolizing domestic comfort and prosperity.