A delftware Plate, Bristol or Brislington, circa 1700-20
Of simple pancake form with a gently convex profile, this plate is painted in blue with a stylised spray of flowers enclosed by concentric rings. The flat outer rim is decorated with a border of conjoined lunettes. There are three stilt or spur marks to the underside, showing how the plate was stacked in the kiln for firing.
Dimensions: Diameter 21.7 cm.
Condition: The glaze around the rim is worn, accompanied by small chips and losses to the edge. The surface features manufacturing imperfections, including pitting and pinholes of various sizes caused by impurities in the clay being ejected during the firing process. The bluish glaze on the reverse is lumpy and has a number of pinholes. The underside also shows traces of blue and manganese pigment transfer dating from manufacture. No cracks or restoration.
Ref. Shape H (Alphabetic shape codes as used in appendix to Archer, Delftware, 1997).
Delftware: The Tin-glazed Earthenware of the British Isles, Michael Archer (V&A/HMSO, 1997).
English Delftware, F.H. Garner and Michael Archer (Faber & Faber, 1972).
Price: £390.