Wedgwood Jasperware Decorative Plates - Right & Left Hand Pair - Shell, Swag & Cupid Motifs

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Wedgwood Jasperware Decorative Plates - Right & Left Hand Pair - Shell, Swag & Cupid Motifs
Rare Matched Pair - … Read more Wedgwood Jasperware Decorative Plates - Right & Left Hand Pair - Shell, Swag & Cupid Motifs
Rare Matched Pair - Very Hard to Find
This exquisite pair of Wedgwood jasperware plates represents the pinnacle of English ceramic artistry, featuring extravagant decoration with classical shells, elegant swags, and romantic cupids. What makes this set truly exceptional is that they form a right and left hand pair - a rare configuration that is increasingly difficult to find on the secondary market.
Romantic & Chic Classical Design
Each plate showcases Wedgwood's masterful application of neoclassical motifs:

Delicate cupids rendered in the finest jasperware relief tradition
Ornate shell decorations displaying exceptional sculptural detail
Graceful swags that flow across the surface with architectural elegance
Handmade craftsmanship evident in every carefully applied element

The romantic sensibility combined with sophisticated classical references creates pieces that are both chic and timelessly elegant - perfect for display or special occasion use.
The Jasperware Legacy
Wedgwood's jasperware remains one of ceramics' greatest innovations. Named after the mineral jasper for marketing appeal, the exact formula remains a closely guarded Wedgwood secret, though analyses reveal barium sulphate as a key ingredient.
Historical Development:
Josiah Wedgwood had been perfecting white stoneware since the early 1770s, building on his earlier success with black basalt. His "waxen white jasper" of 1773-74 proved unstable in firing, but continued research led to the perfected jasperware that became legendary.
Composition & Craftsmanship:
19th-century analysis revealed jasperware's approximate composition:

57% barium sulphate (sourced from Derbyshire lead mining)
29% ball clay
10% flint
4% barium carbonate

This unique formula created a body that was both durable and capable of accepting the finest relief decoration.
Exceptional Quality & Condition
Diameter: 9 inches each
Condition: Excellent - these plates have been carefully preserved
Construction: Handmade jasperware with applied relief decoration
Rarity: Right and left hand pair configuration
These plates were quite expensive when new and remain highly sought after on the secondary market, particularly in matched pairs like this exceptional set.
Perfect For

Wedgwood collectors seeking rare paired pieces
Neoclassical decor - museum-quality decorative objects
Wall display - stunning as a matched pair arrangement
Special occasion presentation - elegant serving pieces for sophisticated entertaining
Investment collecting - jasperware continues to appreciate in value

Display & Versatility
Whether displayed as wall art, showcased on stands, or used for special presentations, this matched pair creates dramatic visual impact. The right and left hand configuration allows for sophisticated symmetric arrangements that highlight Wedgwood's masterful design.
Collectible Significance
Wedgwood jasperware represents one of the most significant innovations in ceramic history. These plates, with their extravagant decoration and rare paired configuration, exemplify why jasperware has remained coveted by collectors and decorators for over two centuries.
Acquire this exceptional right and left hand pair - a rare opportunity to own matched Wedgwood jasperware plates that showcase the romantic elegance and classical sophistication that made Wedgwood legendary.

Maker: Wedgwood
Material: Jasperware with applied relief decoration
Motifs: Shells, swags, and cupids
Size: 9" diameter each
Configuration: Right and left hand pair
Condition: Excellent
Rarity: Very hard to find as matched pair See less