A Parian group “Babes in the Wood”

A charming Parian group “Babes in the Wood” by Minton from the marble by John Bell.  Marked MINTON and inscribed “May 16” on base. According to The Parian Phenomenon, where the group is illustrated on page 63, Fig75, the model was exhibited at the 1851 Great Exhibition where Queen Victoria bought a copy. The original marble was exhibited at the  Royal Academy in 1842 and is now in the Norwich City Museum. 

Approximate dimensions: 12cm h (5”) x 30½cm l (12”) x 15cm w (6”).
 

This is taken from the English fairy tale where the two children escape into the woods from their wicked uncle and his hired thugs. The two innocent children are shown lying together on a bed of leaves with some oak leaves scattered over. 
 

Condition: Probably professional restoration to lower leg and left foot of bigger child (not visible in daylight), otherwise perfect.