Vintage Royal Copenhagen Faun Riding on a Tortoise Figurine — No. 858 | Christian Thomsen, c.1972

Vintage Royal Copenhagen Faun Riding on a Tortoise Figurine — No. 858 | Christian Thomsen, c.1972

An exceptionally whimsical, authentic mid-century Danish porcelain figurine, hand-painted in a subtle, glossy underglaze palette by the renowned Royal Copenhagen Porcelain Manufactory.

The body features a beautifully executed, playful young faun perched dynamically atop the shell of a large tortoise. This charming folklore-inspired animalier sculpture showcases the iconic soft grey tones and delicate hand-painted structural features characteristic of classic Danish porcelain artistry, perfectly embodying the light-hearted storytelling of early 20th-century Scandinavian sculpture.

Originally sculpted by the master artist Christian Thomsen in 1907, the back stamp markings on this particular casting date its individual production to the early 1970s, making it a stellar addition for serious collectors of vintage folklore and creature porcelain.

Maker's Marks & Stampings

The base carries authentic maker's markings applied directly beneath the glaze, along with original studio production details:

• Factory Stamp: Stamped green circular "ROYAL COPENHAGEN / DENMARK" crown emblem. The small line scored under the letter "G" in Copenhagen places its manufacture between 1969 and 1974
• Model Mark: Stamped green model reference number "858" centred perfectly on the unglazed foot ring
• Trademark: Three iconic hand-painted underglaze blue waves, representing Denmark's three historic waterways
• Artist Monogram: Hand-painted blue studio monogram letters identifying the factory decorator

Specifications

• Material: Hand-painted fine porcelain
• Model Number: 858
• Designer: Christian Thomsen
• Height: 9.5cm (approx. 3.75")
• Width: 9.0cm (approx. 3.5")
• Weight: 138g (approx.)

Condition

Excellent vintage display condition with character consistent with its unique production history. We describe condition honestly so you know exactly what you are buying:

• Glaze & Surface: Displays a brilliant, highly reflective factory glaze with minimal surface shelf wear — no dulling or scratching to the porcelain body
• Decoration: The soft underglaze colour gradients on the faun's skin and tortoise shell remain exceptionally smooth and bright
• Repairs: No restoration, repairs, or touch-ups of any kind — 100% original throughout
• Structure: Free from active chips, hairline cracks, flea bites, or hidden flaws. The body is entirely sound, the ears are sharp, and the base sits perfectly flat

Please inspect all photographs closely to verify condition details — the item pictured is the exact piece you will receive.

What's Included

• Vintage Royal Copenhagen Faun Riding on Tortoise Figurine, No. 858
• Protective tissue paper packaging

Shipping

Sent via Royal Mail Tracked — fully tracked, insured, and signature required on delivery.