A large, colorful and fun molded ceramic mantel piece that was designed to hold a pocket watch during Victorian times. The large 10" tall molded ceramic castle has a central hole for holding a pocket watch. The holder is decorated with both molded and applied features. There is so much going on to its windows, turrets, and steps. There are two white swans swimming in front of the house. The glazes are colorful and hand painted. The background glaze has a crackle to it. The base foot is shallow and unglazed. The base is glazed. It has no marks or labels on the base. MEASUREMENTS 10” (25.4 cm) tall x 9 ¼” (23.5cm) wide x 3” (7.6 cm) deep. Weighs 2 lb 10.7 oz (1210 g) CONDITION The appliques are mostly intact but missing or damaged on portions of the top of both towers and the back edge of the central peak. A small piece of the edge of one turret has also broken off and it looks like it has had some repairs. There are small chips to the glaze and gilding losses. The glaze has crazing. There are small manufacture flaws, such as spots and holes that were glazed over. The piece is remarkablyplete given how fragile it is. It is also still very bright and colorful. A large stunning piece of English Staffordshire ceramic art. It definitely makes a statement and would be a great addition to the mantle or collection.