Coffee cup, Bow, soft paste porcelain, c.1755

Decorated with applied prunus moulding, this fine Bow blanc de chine coffee cup dates from c.1755.

This type of decoration derives from white Chinese porcelain wares traditionally made at Dehua, in Fujian province. Similar wares were produced by Chelsea, and also Saint-Cloud in France, although porcelain by the latter is noticeably heavier.

The base is typically Bow, as are the handle and moulded decoration. Manufacturing faults such as minute clay tears in the pooled glaze around the flowers, along with specks of grit and staining associated with firing, are indicative of an early date.

Condition: Excellent - no chips, cracks, or restoration.

This cup would make an attractive addition to any collection of early English porcelain.

Dimensions: Height 2 1/2" (6.4cm)