Beeldje van een Staffordshire dog, met bruine en oranje kleuren

Staffordshire dogs

What began as an innocent souvenir from the English royal family soon took on a surprising supporting role in 18th-century street life.
The so-called Staffordshire dogs also served as a discreet means of communication for prostitutes.
Yet decades later, they were neatly arranged on mantelpieces and in display cabinets in many Dutch households.

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Dutch fishermen and sailors who fished off the coast of England brought these ceramic dogs back from their voyages as souvenirs for their wives or mothers. They were made in pottery factories in Staffordshire, hence the name: Staffordshire Dogs. The dogs were made as royal souvenirs - after Queen Victoria of England's favorite dog, the popular King Charles Spaniel named "Dash" or "Darling Dashy."

“The Staffordshire Dogs are essentially Royal Family souvenirs, similar to the coffee mugs featuring images of William and Kate that are popular today.”
André Groeneveld
Conservator Zuiderzeemuseum

However, there is another story. Queen Victoria of Britain did not tolerate immoral behaviour, which led to a clever cover-up: ladies of easy virtue sold the dogs as souvenirs. Anyone who bought one also had access to the “rest” of their services. The dog in the window indicated whether or not the lady was available: with the dog inside, she was looking for male company; with the dog outside, she was free.

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