Imperial Stone Earthenware Platter by William Ridgway, 1838

Details

Description

Imperial Stone Serving Platter, "Japanica" Pattern, William Ridgway, Son & Co., 1838 – England

Pattern: "Japanica" (pattern no. 2612)
Material: … Read more Imperial Stone Serving Platter, "Japanica" Pattern, William Ridgway, Son & Co., 1838 – England

Pattern: "Japanica" (pattern no. 2612)
Material: Glazed hardstone earthenware, "Imperial Stone"
Manufacturer: William Ridgway, Son & Co.
Period: Early Victorian (c. 1838-1847)
Country of Origin: Staffordshire, England
Provenance: Private Collection
Good condition considering its age and use
Dimensions: 27 x 20.5 x 3 cm

Spectacular Imperial Stone serving platter, the trade name for a type of white, opaque, dense, and highly durable ceramic, with the original mark of the English manufacturer William Ridgway, Son & Co., from the period between 1838 and 1847. This is pattern number 2612 of the firm, known as “Japanica” due to its oriental influence in the ornamentation.

The central composition is dominated by a large, decorated vase or urn, from which exuberant peonies and stylized flowers bloom. Just beside the vase is a half-open scroll, a book, or a traditional Japanese-inspired jewelry box, surrounded by foliage and sinuous branches in dark and gold tones. It also uses the classic color combination inspired by Imari porcelain. Deep cobalt blue (under the glaze), iron red, and terracotta stand out. Delicate freehand goldwork adorns the entire piece, in addition to the fine geometric border around the edge.

The stamp on the back reads “WR.” "S. & Co.", the initials of William Ridgway, Son & Co. This variant of the brand indicates the exact period when William Ridgway formally brought his son, Edward John Ridgway, into the management of the iconic factory. "Imperial Stone" refers to the material. In the center is the Royal Coat of Arms, the British lion and unicorn supporting the shield. The model number is also handwritten.

William Ridgway's porcelain and ceramics are part of the rich history of pottery in Staffordshire, England. This piece has an attribution mark,
I am sure that it is completely authentic and take full responsibility for any authenticity
issues arising from misattribution See less