Monumental Pair Of Porcelain Figures, Harvesters By C. G. Schierholz, Plaue, C. 1865

This impressive large pair of 19th-century porcelain figures was produced by the distinguished C. G. Schierholz manufactory in Plaue, Thuringia, around 1865. Finely modelled as a young harvester couple, each stands barefoot beside a tree stump on a naturalistic oval base. Their attire is painted in a soft palette of lavender, blue, straw yellow and white, subtly heightened with gilt accents, fully characteristic of the Romantic taste of the mid-19th century.

The male figure wears striped breeches and an open shirt, the original sickle handle remaining in hand. His companion, the female figure, carries a sheaf of wheat and a matching hat with ribbon, also retaining her handle. The crisp modelling of hands, hair and flowing drapery reflects the high artistic standards of Plaue porcelain, while the monumental scale—approximately 50 cm high—gives the pair genuine interior impact suitable for a refined setting.

Historical Context
The Plaue factory was founded in 1817 and transformed after Carl Gustav Schierholz took ownership in 1850. Under his direction the manufactory became renowned for technical innovation and sculptural quality, earning international attention through its decorative figures and later its lithophanes. Pastoral subjects—especially Harvesters and the Seasons—became a hallmark of Schierholz’s artistic identity in the Napoleon III period. Comparable examples are preserved in the Porzellanmuseum Plaue and esteemed collections of 19th-century German ceramics.

Measurements
• Male: Height 50.5 cm / 19.9″ — Width 19 cm / 7.5″ — Depth 17 cm / 6.7″
• Female: Height 49.5 cm / 19.5″ — Width 19 cm / 7.5″ — Depth 17 cm / 6.7″

Large and weighty pieces, designed as statement decorative works, not small cabinet figures.

Condition
Excellent condition for the age and scale. Minor superficial firing line to the back of the male figure (non-structural, UV-verified). Sickle blades now lacking, original handles preserved on both. Neat historic drilled holes through the stumps from former lamp use. Original glaze and enamel surfaces fresh with minimal age-related wear. Present beautifully and are ready for display.

Shipping & Packaging
• Fully tracked and insured shipping worldwide
• Professional, secure packing using double-boxing and protective materials
• Shipping cost reflects careful handling and high-grade packaging
• Customs documentation provided where required