Description
There is something deeply enduring about a well-made pair of mantle dogs. These Beswick King Charles Spaniel figurines — a graduated pair in two sizes — belong to a tradition that stretches back to the parlours and fireside shelves of Victorian England. Beswick gave that tradition new life in the mid-20th century, producing these characterful spaniels in glazed ceramic with hand-painted detail and gilt collars and chains. Warm, refined, and unmistakably English.
This pair works beautifully together — the size difference between the two creates a natural, balanced composition whether placed on a mantle, a shelf, or inside a cabinet. The kind of display that looks as though it has always been there.
Details & Specifications
- Maker: Beswick, England
- Models: 1378/4 and 1378/6
- Era: Mid-20th century
- Style: Staffordshire revival mantle dogs
- Material: Glazed ceramic with hand-painted and gilt decoration
- Markings: Original Beswick labels present; both numbered to the base
- Dimensions — Large: H 23 cm (9.1″)
- Dimensions — Small: H 13 cm (5.1″)
Condition Report
- Excellent vintage condition with minimal age-related wear
- Minor wear to gilt decoration consistent with age
- No cracks or chips noted
Why This Pair Endures
Beswick animal ceramics have been collected seriously for decades — and for good reason. The hand-painted finish, original labels, and classic Staffordshire form make this pair genuinely collectable rather than merely decorative. They carry the kind of quiet presence that vintage pieces earn over time. At home in an English country interior, a curated modern shelf, or a collector’s cabinet — these spaniels bring something a reproduction simply cannot.
Carefully packed and shipped with tracking from Sweden. Combined shipping available where possible, with overages refunded. US buyers: DDP shipping included at checkout — all customs duties and handling fees prepaid.
