1830s Antique Blue Transferware Plate by David Johnston Co, Bordeaux, France

Details

Description

Fantastic early 19th century antique Bordeaux David Johnston & Co blue and white transfer plate in absolutely pristine condition.

This … Read more Fantastic early 19th century antique Bordeaux David Johnston & Co blue and white transfer plate in absolutely pristine condition.

This is a rare piece of ceramic history, a blue transfer printed plate, showing a Turkish inspired scene. On the reverse, printed in blue, is marked David Johnston & Co, with an impress mark and the number 1. The dish has a subtly scalloped edge characteristic of his work.

History ~
1830 – 1840, France.

Made by David Johnston and Company, of Bordeaux, France. Born of English/Irish parents Johnston was Mayor of Bordeaux from 1833 to 1843. He started his pottery in 1834, assisted by Boudon de Saint-Amans, who was a former employee of Lahens and Rateau (who had previously run a pottery together, which had closed down). Boudon de Saint-Amans was also a great admirer of English pottery. Together they operated an unusual pottery in so far as they were producing transfer ware in the style of the Staffordshire potteries but made by an Englishman living in France. Production expanded into a large industrial scale, importing fuel and raw materials from England and at one point there were 700 people working at the pottery. Unfortunately the company was declared bankrupt and in 1845 Johnston sold the pottery to Jules Viellard.

Not to be confused with Johnson & Bros Ironstone!

Measures: 8" dia x 1" h

Condition ~
Incredible! Pristine antique condition, few scratches or blemishes. See less