Early 19th Century Coalport Regency John Rose Large Porcelain Dessert Service - 39 Pieces

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Description

Regency Rarity: Spode Porcelain Dessert Service, Pattern 2314

This extensive and highly theatrical Spode Porcelain Dessert Service, dating to the … Read more Regency Rarity: Spode Porcelain Dessert Service, Pattern 2314

This extensive and highly theatrical Spode Porcelain Dessert Service, dating to the peak of the Regency era around Circa 1815, represents the absolute zenith of English fine china decoration inspired by the Orient. The service, likely carrying Pattern #2314 (a complex polychrome pattern), is a breathtaking display of opulent Chinoiserie.

Each piece is crafted from fine Bone China, offering a bright white, translucent ground that perfectly enhances the brilliant overglaze enamels and gilding. The pattern features an exquisite central bouquet of exotic flowers and stylized foliage, utilizing a rich palette of iron red, pink, turquoise, and yellow. This central scene is dramatically framed by a wide, solid cobalt blue ground border that is heavily and intricately gilded with elaborate scrollwork and reserves. The ornate, shaped rims—featuring delicate molding and extensive gold detailing—elevate the set from mere tableware to dazzling decorative art.

Historical Context:

This service was created during the most celebrated period of the Spode factory under Josiah Spode II (1755–1827). Spode is credited with perfecting the formula for Bone China around 1800, creating the robust and dazzlingly white porcelain body that allowed for the heavy application of rich colors and lavish gold seen here.

The style is a sophisticated English interpretation of Chinese export porcelain, known broadly as Chinoiserie or, specifically for this color scheme, the Imari palette. During the Regency (1811–1820s), British society demanded such elaborate dessert services, which served as essential status symbols displayed during the final, formal course of a dinner party. The immense amount of hand-gilding required for this pattern indicates it was an extremely expensive commission, affirming the wealth and refined taste of its original owner.

Service Composition (58 Pieces):

30 Dessert Plates (8 3/8 inches)

4 Shell Dishes (11 inches)

4 Square Dishes (9 1/2 inches)

4 Boat-shaped Dishes (10 1/4 inches)

4 Circular Dishes (10 1/4 inches)

2 Covered Round Tureens/Comports (9 1/4 inches)

2 Covered Boat-shaped Tureens/Comports (9 1/2 inches)

2 High Footed Comports (9 1/4 inches diameter x 4 1/2 inches high)

6 Small Square Dishes (4 1/2 inches)

References:

Whiter, Leonard. Spode: A History of the Family, Factory, and Wares from 1733 to 1833. Barrie & Jenkins, 1970. (Provides context on Spode's Bone China, dating of patterns in the 2000s series to around 1815, and the development of Chinoiserie styles.)

Copeland, Robert. Spode's Willow Pattern and Other Designs after the Chinese. Rizzoli, 1990. (General reference for Spode's Chinoiserie and Imari-style patterns.)

Hayden, Arthur. Chats on English China. T. Fisher Unwin, 1904. (Historical context for the decorative role of grand dessert services in the Regency period.)

(Ref: NY04649-miim) See less