English Staffordshire Flow Blue Ironstone Octagonal Platter with Chinoiserie Garden

Antique English flow blue platter of classic octagonal form, in the deep, softly haloed cobalt that collectors of Staffordshire ironstone prize. At the center a chinoiserie garden rises from pierced rockwork: full-blown chrysanthemums and peonies, blossoming prunus branches, a little garden fence at the water's edge and palm-like trees on a distant islet. Floral sprays frame the well, and a border of blue lozenges and scrolled reserves runs around the canted rim. Price includes shipping!

Flow Blue takes its name from the way the cobalt was encouraged to "flow" into the glaze during firing, softening every line into a rich blue blur. Made in Staffordshire for the English and American markets, these sturdy ironstone platters were the centerpieces of the 19th-century dinner table. Display it on a plate stand on a dresser or hutch, hang it among blue and white on a plate wall, or bring it out for serving just as it was made to be.

KEY FEATURES

• Material: Believed to be English Staffordshire ironstone
• Technique: Underglaze transfer print in flowing cobalt blue
• Pattern: Chinoiserie garden with chrysanthemums, prunus, rockwork and fence
• Marks: Printed blue pattern cartouche in the form of an open book
• Form: Octagonal with canted corners and a deep well

DETAILS

• Country: UK
• Condition: Good (see photos for crazing and small rim nicks)
• Year: 19th Century
• Dimensions: H 1.5” x W 15.5” x D 12”