Staffordshire Figurine Query - Caricature of a dandy

by Karen
(Virginia)

Staffordshire Figurine Query - Caricature of a dandyI purchased this unusual figurine at a local antique mall. It was tagged as staffordshire. It looks like a caricature of a dandy like Oscar Wilde or George Sand. It measures approx. 5 inches tall. I would like to know the purpose of the figure, what type pottery (is it staffordshire), age, country of origin, and maker. There are impressed marks on the base that look like numbers. The opening in the top measures approx. 1 1/4" by 1 1/4" deep. It seems too shallow for toothpicks. There is no striker so I don't think it is a match holder. Could it be a pin cushion holder? Thank you for your help!

Karen