Antique Collecting Series #3: Staffordshire Dogs


The British LOVE their dogs. Past and present.

The dog was always an important fixture in the British home, either a loyal pet or represented in image. Today, the Brits still love their fancy breeds, but I'll take an adopted mutt anytime.


During Queen Victoria's reign (1841-1892), "Comforter Spaniels" were all the rage (the later monarchy had Welsh Corgis).


These dogs were models of Cavalier King Charles Spaniels (the Queen's dogs) molded in pottery, and graced many a mantle in England.

They were made in the Staffordshire district of England during the mid 19th century and came in many shapes, sizes and breeds.

I have always loved dogs (and when I went to photograph the items, I didn't realize how MANY I had, and there's more!), and have collected English antique dog items for years.


Paintings, inkwells, doorstops, letter openers, snuff boxes, cigarette boxes, etc. I ran out of room a long time ago.


Many breeds were founded in Great Britain and had special clubs during the early part of the 19th century.

The Jack Russell Terrier, Bull Mastiff, Pug and King Charles Spaniel seem to have been the favorite of the British upper crust.


Once you start collecting antique dogs, you will find it's addictive.

Dog paintings are my favorite, however, lately they have gotten so pricey, that I don't bother anymore.


I have amassed this collection over the past 30 years, starting out when I was very young. I don't buy anymore, because I have no more room for anything!


If you want to start collecting, my only advice is that you buy from a reputable antiques dealer.

Unfortunately today, many reproductions of Staffordshire dogs and paintings are selling in antique shops, so be wary. The ones from China (stay away from!) aren't even worth $5.00, and the 19th century originals start at about $150. and go up depending on rarity.

One more note:
I don't have a REAL dog right now, and I don't collect cat things. In fact for as much as I love kitties, there is not one cat thing in this house!


What do you collect?

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Comments

The JR said…
A wonderful collection!
Ciao Chow Linda said…
Stacey - I'm always drawn to dogs in paintings at museums and especially the Lagotto breed, which was and still used to forage for truffles. So I loved seeing your great collection. It's funny how after almost 20 years with Shasta, cats don't figure at all in your collection.
Anonymous said…
Oh that last photo, with your motley crue of doggies matching your motley marbled furniture & your motley patterned platter! Reminds me of Gerard Manley Hopkins' poem PIED BEAUTY - do you know it? We're mad around here for a neighborhood calico cat we've christened 'Co'. Glory be to God for dappled things!
Stacey Snacks said…
Ms anonymous
I believe you mean "mottled?"
Bluebird NY said…
Your collection of dogs is lovely and I was reminded of how many unique pieces you have around your house, and how I used to wander around and look at them.
Betsy R. said…
Stacey,
Thank you for posting your antique posts, I find them so lovely to read and see your collections! You have such an interesting life, doing the things you love!
Betsy