Massive English Creamware Pottery Yellow & Botanical Basin, Shorthose & Heath

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Description

Monumental Staffordshire: Massive Shorthose & Heath Creamware "Botanical" Dish
Circa. 1795–1815

A magnificent and monumental English creamware basin, notable for … Read more Monumental Staffordshire: Massive Shorthose & Heath Creamware "Botanical" Dish
Circa. 1795–1815

A magnificent and monumental English creamware basin, notable for its exceptional 17-inch diameter. Produced by the rare Staffordshire partnership of Shorthose & Heath (Hanley) between 1795 and 1815.

The deep basin features a vast, plain cream-colored central well, allowing the warmth of the earthenware body to shine. The wide, everted rim is hand-painted with a striking and rhythmic border design: a bold, undulating wave of canary yellow serves as the ground for delicate polychrome botanical sprigs—likely stylized forget-me-nots or speedwell—which appear to "grow" from the valleys of the wave. The design is framed by precise chocolate-brown enamel lining.

Markings:
Impressed Mark: SHORTHOSE & HEATH (A rare mark; the partnership was brief, and later wares were marked Shorthose & Co.). Workman's Mark: Impressed L9.

Condition: Good

Measurements:
Diameter: 17 inches (43.2 cm)
Height: 2 1/4 inches (5.7 cm)

Historical Context: John Shorthose operated in Hanley (Shelton) from the late 18th century until his bankruptcy in 1823. His wares are celebrated for their light, crisp potting which rivaled the quality of Wedgwood's "Queen's Ware."

(Ref: NY10131-marx) See less