Circa 1790’s English Chinoiserie Leeds Ware Plate

Details

Description

This is an 18th-century English Leeds ware plate, decorated in a refined Chinoiserie “Mandarin” pattern, and dating to approximately 1770–1800.

… Read more This is an 18th-century English Leeds ware plate, decorated in a refined Chinoiserie “Mandarin” pattern, and dating to approximately 1770–1800.

The plate is made of cream-colored pearlware (Leeds ware) and features a finely detailed transfer-printed scene in a rare spinach green tone. At the center is a classical Oriental garden vignette with a standing figure holding a parasol, surrounded by stylized foliage and landscape elements. The scene is framed within a scalloped cartouche, lending elegance and balance to the composition.

Encircling the rim is an intricate diaper and lattice border, richly ornamented with repeating geometric and floral motifs—an unmistakable hallmark of late-18th-century English ceramic design influenced by Chinese export wares.

The reverse is unmarked, but includes a small impressed “IH” mark, traditionally attributed to Josiah Heath, who worked in Hanley, Staffordshire, during the late 18th century. A handwritten provenance card accompanying the piece further supports this attribution and dating.

Condition is consistent with age and use, showing surface wear, light glaze marks, and minor imperfections, all typical of authentic Leeds ware from this period. These signs of age enhance its historic character rather than detract from its appeal.

Overall, this plate is a beautiful example of Georgian English ceramics, prized by collectors for its early date, elegant Chinoiserie imagery, and restrained yet sophisticated green transfer decoration. It works equally well as a collector’s piece or refined wall display, especially when paired with other 18th-century English wares.
The color is more of a muted black but photographs with a green hue See less