Sunderland Luster Maritime Pottery Plaque, "May Peace and Plenty on Our Nation Smite...."

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Description

"Commerce & Peace": Sunderland Pink Luster Maritime Pottery Plaque
Moore & Co.,
Circa 1855–66

A classic Victorian Sunderland luster pottery … Read more "Commerce & Peace": Sunderland Pink Luster Maritime Pottery Plaque
Moore & Co.,
Circa 1855–66

A classic Victorian Sunderland luster pottery plaque, attributed to Moore & Co.'s Wear Pottery (active 1855–1866).

The rectangular plaque features a molded, self-framed border characterized by high-relief scroll and shell motifs, highlighted with a copper-brown rim and the distinctive "splashed" pink luster characteristic of the Sunderland potteries. The center displays a crisp black transfer print of a three-masted sailing ship (portside view) under full sail. Below the vessel, a floral-garlanded cartouche contains the patriotic verse:

"May Peace & Plenty On our Nation Smile, and Trade with Commerce Bless the British Isle."

The plaque is pierced with two original holes in the top rim, designed for hanging on a cottage or cabin wall.

Dimensions: 8 1/2 inches high x 9 1/2 inches wide x 1 inch deep.

Condition: Excellent antique condition. The pink luster remains vibrant with good iridescence. Transfer print is clear and legible.

Historical Context:

This specific transfer print has a documented lineage in the North East pottery trade. It first appeared on plaques from Dixon's Garrison Pottery (c. 1839) and later on examples from Newbottle High Pottery (c. 1845). By the mid-1850s, the copper plate for this transfer had moved to Moore & Co., allowing this piece to be dated specifically to the 1855–1866 period. These plaques were popular souvenirs for sailors and their families, embodying the mercantile pride and hopes for prosperity of the Victorian maritime community.

(Ref: NY10856-iam) See less