Nasturtiums are the old-time flowers, as homey as gingham and pig-tails. The Complete Guide to Garden Flowers, 1961

{HISTORY}

One of the prettiest aspects of dishware patterns from the 1920s and the 1930s is the cheerful use of bright orange and spring green color combinations. After those two decades, orange wouldn't come back into popularity again until the 1970s, which is a shame because its such a lively and complementary color to most foods. 

This rare gravy boat, teetering on its antique years, was made in England by W.H. Grindley and features hand-painted nasturtium flowers in the bright and bold shades of orange and yellow. Part of the Lichfield pattern design, it is styled in the Grindley shape, Chelsea Ivory, and features a unique handpainted handle with a heart-shaped cutout. Throughout its years of use, it has developed gorgeous crazing lines and staining that offer another interesting layer of visual storytelling and speculation about just where exactly this gravy boat has traveled throughout its life. Wouldn't it be fun if we could track a piece like this, throughout its entire length of life, beginning with its creation in England in the 1920s? What adventures it must have had! 

In operation for over 100 years, W.H. Grindley & Co. began in 1880 in the popular pottery hub of Stoke-on-Trent in Tunstall, England. Makers of both mass-market china and hotelware for England export, Grindley pieces offer unique designs and interesting color arrangements. Associated with a handful of other notable potteries throughout its 100-year run including the famous potter Alfred Meakin, Grindley ceased operation in 1991 after being acquired by Woodlands Pottery.

{SPECIAL FEATURES}

- W.H. Grindley Lichfield pattern

- Handpainted Nasturtium flowers

- Unique handle design

- Stamped on bottom with maker's mark, patent number and dish style

{CONDITION}

In gorgeous almost-antique condition. No chips or crack. Lots of lovely crazing. Light staining on the interior. 

{SIZE}

Measures 3.25" inches (height) x 7.5" inches (length) x 4" inches (width)  

{STYLE IDEA}

If you are looking for pretty dinner plate companions for your mismatch tablescape, this English Myott Staffordshire trio look lovely alongside the gravy boat.