A moulded Chelsea Soup Plate, Red Anchor period, circa 1754-56
The outline and ornate rococo moulding of this soup plate is clearly influenced by contemporary English silver design, whilst the deutsche Blumen painted decoration emulates the richness of Meissen flower painting. Separated by elaborate trelliswork and floral moulding, three cartouches are decorated with pairs of colourful birds. The rim is painted with a brown line.
Small red anchor mark.
The typical Chelsea ‘moons’ are visible with the aid of transmitted light.
Chelsea porcelain was aimed primarily at a wealthy market, and the factory was greatly patronised by the aristocracy of the middle years of the 18th century.
Dimensions: Diameter 23 cm.
Condition: Excellent – no damage or restoration. The flower and bird painting is incredibly detailed, and there is only very light wear. From manufacture, there is a clay tear visible on the underside, and also typical firing anomalies, including pooled glaze to the foot rim and kiln spit and a tiny firing flaw to the rim. Chelsea fired their wares on ‘stilts’, and evidence of these kiln supports can be seen on the underside of the base.
This plate would make an attractive addition to any collection of early English porcelain.
Chelsea Porcelain, Elizabeth Adams (Barrie & Jenkins, 1987).
Chelsea Porcelain at Williamsburg, John C. Austin (Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, 1977).
Price: £685.