A delftware Tile, painted with a harbour scene. Probably Liverpool, circa 1750

This tin-glazed earthenware tile is painted in blue with an attractive European harbour scene, including two swans, a bridge and a jetty with boats in sail beyond, all contained within an octagonal border, the corners painted with stylised flower heads. Two swans are often found on tiles attributed to Liverpool.

The tile is framed and rests on four raised feet to serve as a stand or coaster.

A small pinhole can be seen in the corner at bottom left.

Condition: Typical glaze wear and the corner at bottom right has a small loss. The other corners seem fine, just dirty. There is a small chip to the top edge, although the frame conceals any other damage.

Dimensions: 15.5 cm across (framed)

A Catalogue of English Delftware Tiles, compiled by Jonathan Horne (1980).

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).

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