Plate, Wedgwood, c.1822

This Wedgwood creamware plate is transfer printed in blue with the pattern Absalom's Pillar. This pattern, introduced by Wedgwood in 1822, is particular to that factory. Incredibly light and finely potted, this example would date from this early period.

Another name for this pattern is Absalom's Tomb, although it was referred to as the Pavillion pattern within the factory. Used for dinner services, the design is thought to be based on three engravings by Luigi Mayer in his Views of Palestine (1804), with copper plates engraved by William Brookes.

The border design comprises large flowers including crocuses, almost botanical specimens in their detail. Absalom's Pillar is at Petra in the Valley of Kedron, east of Jerusalem.

The base bears an early impressed 'WEDGWOOD' mark, along with the impressed initials 'HH'. A small printer's cypher is also visible in blue. Three sets of three spur marks can also be seen on the underside of the rim.

Condition: Excellent - no chips, cracks or restoration. The printed design is incredibly crisp and detailed. The creamy glaze on the reverse has some areas of fine crazing, not untypical of wares from this period. It is an excellent example of transfer printed earthenware by this important firm.

We also have for sale a further four plates from this service, each fully-marked and in the same wonderful condition.

Dimensions: Diameter 9 3/4" (25cm)

The Dictionary of Blue & White Printed Pottery 1780-1880, Volume I, A.W. Coysh & R.K. Henrywood (Antique Collectors' Club, 2001).