This Spode shell-shaped dessert dish is decorated with a handpainted topographical view of Orford Castle, surrounded by an ornate border of rich gilt foliate scrolls. The outer rim is moulded, as is the handle, which is pierced and shaped in the form of a gilt scallop shell. This dish would certainly have formed part of an elaborate dessert service of the Regency period.

Orford Castle is situated in Suffolk, and was built by Henry II between 1165 and 1173 in order to consolidate royal power in the region. The romantic ruins of the castle keep stand to this day, remaining much as they were when they were painted by this unknown Spode artist almost two hundred years ago.

The name of the view is painted on the base in handwritten script, as is the Spode mark. There is also a small impressed mark in the form of a dotted circle.

Condition: Excellent - no chips, cracks or restoration. The enamel decoration shows no sign of wear, and there is only very slight wear to the gilt decoration.

Topographical views painted on porcelain from this period are highly collectable, and Spode produced some of the finest wares of this type, rivalling Derby.

Dimensions: Width 8" (20cm); Length 8 1/2" (22cm)

Spode, Leonard Whiter (Barrie & Jenkins), 1989.