A moulded Chelsea Dish, Red Anchor period, circa 1755
The outline and ornate rococo moulding of this oval dish is clearly influenced by contemporary English silver design, whilst the deutsche Blumen painted decoration emulates the richness of Meissen flower painting.
Chelsea porcelain with this moulding is described as being of Warren Hastings type, named after the Governor General of Bengal, Warren Hastings (1732-1818).
A solitary green rose leaf and an insect have been employed by the artist to disguise minor flaws in the firing. 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.
Provenance: The Sibyl Hermele Collection.
Condition: Excellent – no chips, cracks or restoration. The flower painting is incredibly detailed, and there is only light wear in places. Chelsea fired their wares on ‘stilts’, and evidence of these kiln supports can be seen on the underside of the base.
This dish would make a handsome addition to any collection of early English porcelain.
Dimensions: Length 33.5 cm
Chelsea Porcelain, Elizabeth Adams (Barrie & Jenkins, 1987).
Chelsea Porcelain at Williamsburg, John C. Austin (Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, 1977).