Georgian Chelsea Wax Seal Fob

An extremely rare Georgian wax seal fob made by the Chelsea Porcelain Manufactory circa 1750-60. Designed as a tiny squirrel attending to a nut, the word "Activity" painted around the base at his feet, set with an agate intaglio of an oak tree in a meadow, a closed gate nearby.

For centuries the squirrel has been used as an allegorical symbol, representing preparedness and virtuous labors: never at rest they are always busily engaged towards some unknown but crucial objective. While the wealthier classes may have had the time to sit idly in the 18th century, idleness in itself would have been frowned upon as one of the cardinal sins, thus “Activity" as something to aspire to and admire.

Likewise the intaglio subject is a nod towards the virtues of loyalty, strength and steadfast resolve: the oak leaf, and the acorn have been used on crests and coats of arms for centuries to indicate such qualities, while a gate nearby suggests a journey or path to be taken (hopefully the virtuous one).

Details: Measuring approximately 1" inch tall and north to south and 5/8" by 9/16" across the oval base.

Condition: In excellent antique condition with some light wear to the painted colors which has lightened the word "Activity," but no chips, scratches or cracks. The figure of the squirrel is porcelain, the base mount and bail finding are gilded metal and the intaglio is agate.

History: The Chelsea company was famous for such small-scale "toys” with subject matter intended to charm and amuse, often including flirtatious or amorous themes, symbolism and word-play. The lighter pastel colors indicate this piece is likely from the period before Chelsea was purchased by the Derby company in 1770, after which stronger and brighter colors were employed.