Rare Boer War Commemorative Staffordshire Flatback figure Depicting Robert Baden Powell on Horseback c1900

Here on offer is a rare example of an antique Boer War period commemorative Staffordshire flatback figure depicting Robert Baden Powell, in his military uniform, on horseback, circa 1900.

This exact type of Staffordshire figure, is shown on page39, Plate 82, Fig.2, of the book by Pieter Posthuizen, titled, BOER WAR MEMORABILIA – THE COLLECTOR’S GUIDE.

I believe it was produced to celebrate the successful Defence of Mafeking, during the South African Boer War. As the commanding officer in one of the crucial battles of the war Baden-Powell rose to the status of national hero.

He is even better known as the inspiration and founder of The Boy Scouts Association and together with his sister Agnes, the joint Founder of The Girl Guides Association.

He is depicted with a brimmed hat that became the ubiquitous Scout hat. He is wearing his Khaki military uniform, with his left hand across his chest holding the horse’s reins, his right on the animal’s flank, with gilt highlights and lettering on the front.

This example has been through “the wars” and has some damage and repairs.

The head has been knocked off in the past which was common with these pieces at the time. It shows signs of an early repair using brown glue, albeit the repair is actually quite good, for a period restoration.

The hat has clearly been repainted as well one assumes to help hide the repair, but the paint finish is now cracking.

There is also an old crack to the horses rear right leg and some flaking of paint to the green and brown foliage below the horse. All these areas are shown in my photos.

This commemorative figure still makes an impressive display piece for any Boer War or Staffordshire flatback collectors.

If it didn’t have the repairs, it would be twice this price, if you can find one for sale, as most are now kept in museums.

It measures 8.5” (21.5cm) wide by 12.25” (31cm) high and 2.5” (6.3cm) deep.

It weighs a heavy 1.25Kg.

Please see my pictures for the details of the condition, which complement this description.

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The responsibility lies with the customer to check with your Customs restrictions that this item can be imported into your country.

Code: 52018