Shape Type: Dinner & Dessert Wares

Pattern Type: Chinese, Asian and Other Exotic Themes

Date: 1775-1788

Dimensions:

  • Height: 8.50 in (21.59 cm)

Maker: Worcester

Description:

This footed bowl has two elaborate entwined handles and there is another on the cover.  These are decorated with applied flowers, leaves and "hot cross bun buds". The piece is printed in underglaze blue with the Argument (Branyan, French & Sandon Worcester Blue & White Porcelain, II.B.10), a popular pattern at Worcester during the later period of blue and white production.  The pattern has an elaborate printed border and this bowl has additional printed floral sprays arranged around the foot.  The exact function of this rare piece is uncertain.  It was probably intended for the dessert table but it may have been the central part of a supper set, although no matching segment dishes have been recorded.

This piece was previously in the Godden and Zorensky collections.  When it was sold at Bonham's in 2005, the catalogue suggested that the handles and knop may have been modeled by John Toulouse, during his second period at Worcester c1785-88. 

http://printedbritishpotteryandporcelain.com/what-did-they-make/pottery-item/covered-bowl-0