James Hadley For Royal Worcester Monumental “cairo Water Carrier”, 1886

A monumental Royal Worcester “Cairo Water Carrier,” produced in 1886 from a model by James Hadley and decorated in the factory’s Patent Metallic finish. At 49.5 cm high and weighing 2825 grams, this is a substantial late Victorian display figure and one of Worcester’s most recognisable Orientalist subjects.

The model depicts an Eastern water carrier holding a large amphora, wearing flowing robes and a turban. Royal Worcester produced this figure in several sizes and decorative schemes, including lighter ivory-based examples, polychrome versions and other enamelled colourways. The Patent Metallic examples are among the most sought after, especially the bronze-gold robed version with pale lilac sleeves, dark sash and soft green turban.

The printed PATENT METALLIC mark on the underside identifies Worcester’s patented metallic decorative process, an advanced 1880s factory finish used to imitate the appearance and richness of metal surfaces through ceramic decoration. The Royal Worcester date letter X confirms production in 1886, and the impressed Hadley signature on the base identifies the sculptural design.

James Hadley was one of Royal Worcester’s most important modellers of the second half of the 19th century. His large figural works remain highly regarded for their scale, technical quality and distinctive modelling.

This example is especially collectable because it combines exhibition scale, early date, identifiable designer, premium Patent Metallic decoration and one of Royal Worcester’s best-known Orientalist compositions.

Dimensions

• Height: 49.5 cm
• Width: 20 cm
• Depth: 18 cm
• Weight: 2825 g

Condition
Magnificent antique condition. Excellent preservation of the Patent Metallic finish, modelling and decorative detail. A superbly preserved large-scale example.

Shipping & Packaging
Please study the accompanying photographs carefully as they form an integral part of this description.
If you have any questions, we will be happy to answer them.
The item will be shipped with full tracking and insurance.
It is important to note that shipping costs include labour, packaging and postage.