Two Minute Reads: Fairings – The “Victorian Memes”

Have you seen Villa Finale’s collection of Fairings? Fairings are small porcelain figures – ranging from three inches to no more than five inches – that depict a variety of political or domestic scenes, usually with humor – they were the “memes” of their era, if you will. The term was used for a variety of prizes awarded mainly at English country fairs but somehow, the name “Fairing” would be forever tied to these charming miniatures which could be won or purchased for only a few pence by happy fairgoers.

Fairing showing the “joys” of parenthood. (From the Villa Finale Collection.)

Popular amongst the working classes between 1850 and 1914, the figures were not only humorous but many times, rather risqué – oh, my! Among the popular domestic themes for Fairing collectors were unhappy marriages, affairs, drunkenness, and, well, you get the picture!

A fairing known as a “bedpiece” with the caption “Returning at one o’clock in the morning.” (From the Villa Finale Collection.)

Villa Finale’s collection of Fairings can be found in the Green Sitting Room upstairs and could be difficult to spot. However, beginning on February 13th, we will have many of these on display during one of our annual “mini exhibits.” The mini-exhibit called “The Wonderful World of Fairings” will be on view in the museum’s Dining Room table. Come see these fascinating little figures up close when you visit during a self-guided tour. Warning: blushing may occur!