Tray

Dateca. 1760

OriginEngland, Liverpool or Ireland, Dublin

MediumTin-glazed earthenware (delft)

DimensionsDiam: 12 3/8"; (31.4 cm)

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1958-267

DescriptionFlat eight-lobed tray with slightly raised edge and no foot ring. Bluish tin glaze decorated in blue with a chrysanthemum, rockwork, cherry blossoms, and a baluster-shaped vase containing peacock feathers and a blossom; on the border, flowers and scrolls reserved on a blue ground; on the reverse, the numeral 8.
Label TextJust over a foot in width, this rare delft tray mimics the shape of similar vessels produced in silver and wood. It was likely used for carrying teawares or serving beverages in glasses. A similar delft tray with six lobes and different decoration, dated 1743, is in the Victoria and Albert Museum. The numeral "8" on the bottom of the tray shown here is likely a decorator's mark. Such marks appear on many pieces with Dublin attributions, but they also appear on English-made pieces (see CWF accessions 1960-940, 1960-927, and 1963-73).
Inscribed"8" in blue on the base.
MarkingsNone
ProvenanceMrs. F. Hicks, Dolgelley, Wales
A. F. Allbrook, London