Very collectable stoneware pig. Is it a boar? Is it a sow? I’ve chosen the latter so I refer to this beautiful beast in the pronouns ‘she’ and ‘her’.

From the highly acclaimed Wildlife Studio Bellingham, Northumberland range, this dignified ornamental pig was purchased in the 1980s from a reputable home furnishing store in Tottenham Court Road, London. She is cleverly carved - very realistic - from her proud upstanding ears to her determinedly curled tail. This delightful object is smooth and cool to the touch and is very weighty - hence I had in mind to use her as a door-stop but the undeniable look of indignation on her face left me in no doubt that such a place was far beneath her immense dignity - thus, for the past 30 years she has occupied peak position on my display shelf. I call her ‘Proud Pig.’ She’s also an excellent paperweight - will reign supremely as queen of your desk, and does well as a single-handed bookend.

Like all the Wildlife Studio carvings, she’s perfectly polished, with that recognisable rustic, tanned patina (use of light and dark shading to enhance every crease in the skin and roll of flesh - as seen in her wrinkled snout), leaving nothing to the imagination. In pristine condition - not a chip - not a crack. Felt-covered base, bearing ‘Wildlife Studio’ sticker. Going for a tiny fraction of price paid 30 years ago (and now it’s a vintage, sought-after, collectible). It is fairly large - nearly 1 foot in height and nearly 18inches in circumference at widest point. I can meet firm buyer at any mutually convenient London location, or item can be courier delivered - buyer to cover delivery cost, please.