Remarkable Folk Art Butcher's Shop Diorama

With a Full-Bodied Figure of the Butcher, beneath a Royal Coat of Arms

In a Fitted Interior with a Comprehensive Display of Joints and Carcasses

Hand Carved and Painted Wood with Various Media

English, c. 1880-90

26.5” high x 26.5” wide x 10.75” deep



We discovered a fragment of historic newspaper in the interior which was dated 1884 and we believe that this model may well have been created to celebrate the Golden Jubilee in 1887, hence the gilded Royal Coat of Arms and excitingly comprehensive collection of individually carved and painted pieces. The shop is open fronted, with windows and flower pots on the upper level, as is typical of other examples we have handled. This is one of a group of similar known models, all of which seem to have been made by the same anonymous hand. One of which is owned by the Victoria and albert Museum and is held in the Collection of the Museum of Childhood. This example is particularly comprehensive and of impressive large scale. It was recently discovered, almost entirely complete, but in a sorry condition and lacking the glass front and with only two sides of gilt framing slips. It has been carefully and professionally reconstructed and the case has been fully restored with a replacement glass and gilt slips. It is now presented in gallery condition ready to hang or stand. This diorama is simply a masterpiece of British Folk Art and an exciting discovery.