Tea Bowl, Lowestoft, soft paste porcelain, c.1770

This Lowestoft tea bowl is attractively handpainted in underglaze inky blue with a peony issuing from a hollow rock. A floral sprig is painted on the reverse and also the interior. The border is decorated with a flower and husk or berry-type pattern. The style of painting is most charming and naive, qualities which make Lowestoft wares so desirable.

Condition: Excellent - no chips, cracks or restoration.

The manufacture of soft paste porcelain began at Lowestoft in around 1760, and lasted until c.1799. Pieces by this much sought-after factory are becoming increasingly hard to find, and this saucer is an excellent example from this period.

Dimensions: Diameter 3" (7.6cm); Height 1 11/16" (4.3cm)

The Illustrated Guide to Lowestoft Porcelain, Geoffrey A. Godden, Praeger (1969).

Godden's Guide to Blue and White Porcelain, Geoffrey A. Godden, Antique Collectors' Club (2004).