Cress dish & stand, c1805 |
Made in a fine earthenware body called creamware, the design is an elegant, classical, repeat border pattern in pinkish red and black - all of which is handpainted.
The design was recorded as pattern number 687 and dates from about 1805.
I love the shape as well as the very lovely pattern of what is simply an arrangement of drain holes. This allowed any water to run off from the freshly-washed watercress. The little claw feet on the dish raised it above its stand so it does not sit in a puddle.
Detail of piercing |