1920s Wedgwood Fairyland Lustre Charger "Garden of Paradise", Daisy Makeig-Jones

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Description

Fantastic Opulence: Wedgwood Fairyland Lustre Charger "Garden of Paradise",
Daisy Makeig-Jones (1881–1945),
Circa 1920s

A magnificent and large porcelain charger … Read more Fantastic Opulence: Wedgwood Fairyland Lustre Charger "Garden of Paradise",
Daisy Makeig-Jones (1881–1945),
Circa 1920s

A magnificent and large porcelain charger by Wedgwood, designed by the visionary Daisy Makeig-Jones (1881–1945). This piece is a quintessential example of her "Fairyland Lustre" series, featuring the intricate and fantastical "Garden of Paradise" pattern (Variation I).

The interior surface is a kaleidoscope of pearlescent and iridescent glazes, depicting a dreamlike landscape filled with exotic trees, mythical creatures, and imp-like figures hidden within the foliage. The central medallion features a swirling, textured pool of water in rich blues and purples, surrounded by concentric bands of lush, fairytale scenery.

The exterior is equally decorated with the specific "Flight of Birds" (also known as "Bird in a Hoop") border, featuring a continuous frieze of exotic birds in flight against a mottled blue lustre ground, accented with elaborate gilding.

Markings:

Maker's Mark: Printed gold Portland Vase mark with text "WEDGWOOD / MADE IN ENGLAND".

Pattern Number: Painted number Z4968 /Shape: 2483.

Provenance Label: "Rubin Collection" (Dr. Ellis F. Rubin and Suzanne Borow Rubin).

Condition: Excellent antique condition. The lustre glazes remain vibrant and iridescent with no significant scratches. The gilding is bright and intact.

Measurements:
Diameter: 11 inches (27.9 cm)
Height: 2 inches (5.1 cm)

Historical Context:

Daisy Makeig-Jones (1881–1945) A rebellious figure in Wedgwood’s history, Makeig-Jones broke away from the factory’s traditional Neoclassical Jasperware to create the fantastical "Fairyland Lustre" series (produced c. 1915–1931). Inspired by the "Golden Age" illustrations of Arthur Rackham and Edmund Dulac, she developed complex, multi-layered glazing techniques that required up to six kiln firings to achieve their iridescent depth. Her work is credited with saving Wedgwood financially during the 1920s, offering escapist luxury during a tumultuous era. Because of the difficulty in production and her forced retirement in 1931, these pieces remain rare and highly prized.

Provenance:
Collection of Dr. Ellis F. Rubin and Suzanne Borow Rubin (Paper Label over its original price tag marked $6,500.00.

(Ref: NY10973-inln) See less