This rare and early Derby butter tub, dating from the William Duesbury I period, is of octagonal shape with a chocolate line rim. Each of the angled sides is painted with delicate enamel European floral sprays in the manner of the Cotton Stem Painter, with its characteristic thread-like stems. The two long sides are painted with beautiful floral bouquets in the same Cotton stem style.

Three typical patch marks can be seen on the unglazed base, the result of resting the item on clay balls or pads in the kiln. This was to prevent it from sticking to the kiln during firing.

Unmarked.

Provenance: Alasdair Morrison Collection.

Condition: No damage or restoration, just light wear to the enamel line on the rim. There is a small firing fault to the base and a tiny frit to the rim.

Dimensions: Length 4 7/8" (12.4cm); Width 3 7/8" (9.9cm); Height 2 1/2" (6.4cm)

John Twitchett, Derby Porcelain 1748-1848, Antique Collectors' Club, 2002.