Pair of Antique English Staffordshire Zebras

• England, circa 1860
• Dimensions: Larger - 8 1/4 inches tall, 7 1/2 inches width, Smaller - 7 1/2 inches tall, 7 inches width

Staffordshire makers may have been inspired to create these zebras after seeing them in zoos and circuses. The first zebra arrived in England in 1762 and was kept at Buckingham House (now called Buckingham Palace) prior to being moved to the Tower of London. Staffordshire zebras are often accurate depictions of the animal with their narrow black stripes and tails.

These adorable charming zebras are hand painted with fine details. Beautifully hand modelled, both zebras are standing on green covered plinths (a base supporting a statue or vase). Each zebra has been caught in motion, trotting with one front leg bent/stepping and resting on the greenery base, as well as their tails flowing. Both are in excellent condition and considering their age, must have been very well cared for.

Please note that our zebras are not an exact match but are being sold as a pair. The zebras are slightly different in their poses and the colors can sometimes vary slightly. This is because they had many different painters who worked on the same subject matter but on different objects at a factory.

There are no maker’s marks on either one of these zebras. Most Staffordshire figures made from 1740 to 1900 were produced at small factories and makers’ marks are generally absent. Lions, giraffes, tigers, zebras, and elephants generated a great deal of excitement in the 19th century, and were made into wonderful figurines as other Staffordshire animals as well.

Please note that we have 3 Zebras as evidenced by the photograph and they can be sold as a single, a pair, or all 3 together.