The things in this world which are thoroughly insignificant are precisely the things that are singularly rare. G.K. Chesterton

{HISTORY}

Hailing from the popular pottery hub of Shelton, Stoke-on- Trent, England this stunning antique vegetable serving dish was made by Francis Morley & Co between 1845-1858. Part of the Aurora pattern line, it is executed in the poly-chrome style, featuring blue transferware and handpainted details in red, green, and yellow (also known as buff). 

The Aurora pattern contained seven different variations that ranged in single color transferware like blue, mulberry, and red and then progressed to more detailed designs that included additional handpainted areas. Partially handpainted dishes like this one were known as polychrome.

Other variations included an orange stripe at the edge, multiple color arrangements, and full, overall handpainted areas covering all parts of the dish along with the transferware. These differences in color palette and variation make Francis Morley's Aurora pattern especially fun to collect since all pieces within this series contain unique details. 

In 1840, just a few years before Francis Morley took over complete control of the pottery then known as Ridgway, Morley, and Wear, 348 workers were employed at the pottery including men, women, and children. More than half of these employees were female adults, teenagers, and children under the age of 13 - a startling reminder of young children as wage earners during the industrial revolution. 

It's incredible to think of the many hands who made this dish piece by piece and the stories that their lives contributed to the overall composition of it. From the clay throwers to the glazers to the decorators who applied the transferware and the handpainted touches, this is one dish that represents many lives.  As a true work of art that is now over 175 years old, it's now a part of history that includes discussions on manufacturing, workers' rights, and artistic design. The weight of all that significance is definitely felt in the spirit of this beautiful bowl.

Pieces by Francis Morley & Co are held in private collections around the world including the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.

{SPECIAL FEATURES}

- Rare dish

- Aurora pattern

- Polychrome design

{CONDITION}

In gorgeous antique condition. There are no cracks and the glaze is very shiny and bright. There is one small pencil point size chip and stain on the inside wall on one side and some various light staining around edge of the rim as expected with age. Please see photos.

{SIZE}

Measures 8.75" inches (length)  x 6.75" inches (width) x 2" inches (height) and weighs 1.5lbs.

{FOR THE LOVER OF REALLY OLD THINGS}
 

We love really old dishware in the Vintage Kitchen. Find our second oldest dish in the shop here.