When a copy becomes collectible

These two antique figurines were sold at auction recently for USD1,000. They carry what looks like a Meissen mark.

And these two figurines are ones I bought a very long time ago, which carry the "Chelsea" mark.

Actually neither pair are by Meissen or Chelsea, but they are the work of Samson of Paris.

Ironic really when it is possible that Samson was a forger. He began his career in the 1830s, essentially to make service and set piece replacements. The history is slightly muddied, suggesting that the company either drew "inspiration" from other factories, or directly copied them. He was "inspired by" Meissen, Sevres, Chelsea and Derby, and the firm also copied famille rose and famille verte, and Imari.

It is believed that Samson did not set out to deceive, and all copies were distinctly marked to avoid confusion with the originals, but many products have been passed off as originals.

But, as fashion changes, the auction price achieved suggests that these copies are now considered collectible, and obviously quite valuable.

I am pleased to note that I paid less than USD100 for my pair, and their display went out of favour (in my eyes) many eons ago, and they have remained wrapped in tissue and boxed, until I photographed them today.

A happy find. But they've gone back in the box!