These are a little later than the other
sets we've been looking at though, I think, and were issued by R. Briton Rivier, as Faber, alongside the slightly
later-starting Matchlock range of
military subjects, Faber being
technically civilian, also contained court subjects such as the regal pair in
this box, probably sold through heritage sites and museum gift shops, along
with Hamley's, Harrods (?) and the toy soldier dealers of the West End.
The box opens in the style of CGB Minot's display boxes - but without
the decorative background lining-papers - to reveal the royal couple in all
their (plaster rather than pumice I believe) finery. The Orange King looks a
bit pale and rather surprised to be King of England (as well he might!), but
she's looking very Queenish, if not; actually haughty!
From behind; the painting is 'Toy Soldier'
style and they have a deep gloss varnish finish, for toughness/protection as
much as for pure decoration, and I think William the III has a card or
matchwood disc under his plaster-base to prevent it braking or chipping.
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