Hi Anita,

Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.

Made in Staffordshire, England, the heart of Britain’s pottery industry, these figures were produced mainly from the early 19th century through the early 20th century (roughly 1820–1920). They were inspired by the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, a breed beloved by Queen Victoria. Her own spaniel, Dash, made the type especially fashionable from the 1830s onward.

The dogs were made by numerous Staffordshire potteries — not a single maker — which is why there’s wide variation in quality and detail. Decorative figures meant to sit on mantelpieces, hence the term “mantel dogs," they symbolized loyalty, gentility, and domestic virtue, reflecting Victorian ideals of home and family. They were often made in pairs, one for each side of a fireplace or mirror — sometimes with subtle differences (such as one looking left and one right).

These appear to have been made in the early 20th Century; related near pairs that have sold at auction recently have brought prices ranging from $250-350.

Based on the photos and information provided, and subject to examination, this is:

A pair of antique Staffordshire porcelain Cavalier King Charles spaniels
English, early 20th Century
Black and white dogs, one smaller than the other, hollow-molded, apparently unmarked.
The shorter: 9 by 7 by 4 inches; the larger: 11 by 7 by 4 inches
CONDITION: These appear to be in good condition.
PROVENANCE: Inherited
$ 250-350 for the pair*
*represents a fair-market value for auction purposes; retail or asking price may vary.

Please let us know if you have additional items to appraise, or questions/concerns, and thank you again for using Mearto.
~ Delia