Five Blue Pots

We recently had a trip to Derby Museum and Art Gallery because I have a picture in this summer's open art exhibition. (Don't get excited - they accepted everything that was submitted!) The cafe also holds the newly-arranged ceramics gallery, from which I've chosen a selection of blue things for this week's Five on Friday. Joining in with everyone at Amy's Love Made My Home. Click on the link at the bottom to see other people's Fives.

1775

Two plates - known as Pearlware - made at the Cockpit Hill factory in Derby about 1775. This kind of ware was made between about 1740 and 1820. It was designed to look like more expensive porcelain imported from China but was more affordable. This is the kind of porcelain that gave rise to the Willow Pattern.

1795-1800 

Coffee can and saucer with a view of Matlock High Tor. Made at the Derby Porcelain Factory in Nottingham Road. Dates can be identified from the production mark on the base of objects. Between 1788 and 1801 the mark was a crown and crossed batons over the letter D.

1820

A pair of vases from the same Nottingham Road factory, decorated by William Watson. The current factory still employs hand painters, although much of the modern porcelain is transfer printed. Factory marks were various designs, but all red, at this stage.

1960

Freedom Casket presented to Alderman John Clark in 1960 when he was given Freedom of the Borough by the city council. I have no idea what he was supposed to keep in it - maybe some sort of proclamation - but there were several of these on display. The painting in the cartouche on the front is a view of the city

1974

Figure of a kingfisher. I really like this one. Made at the Royal Crown Derby factory in Osmaston Road, which still exists. You can do factory tours and see the beautiful items being made and hand decorated. The visitor centre has an excellent tea room where you can eat cake from Royal Derby porcelain and drink tea from their extremely delicate cups.  Very posh!

Now click here to visit Amy and see the other Friday Fives.