DS2005-0374
Shown: 2005-148; 2005-155,1; 2005-155,2 and 2005-183

Plate

Date1765-1770

MediumEarthenware, lead-glazed, creamware with green

DimensionsOverall: 7 11/16in. (19.5cm)

Credit LineGift of Mr. Harry H. Coon

Object number2005-148

DescriptionPress-molded plate produced to resemble the leaves and florets of a cauliflower. The piece is ornamented overall with eight green-glazed leaves radiated from the center which are superimposed on a ground of white florets in the center and on the serpentine rim.
Label TextNaturalism was an important theme echoed in the decorative arts of the mid-eighteenth century. This fascination with nature was reflected in the types of ceramic wares produced throughout England. Staffordshire potters produced molded tea wares made to mimic the natural world including the coloration of tortoise shell, the look of agate stone, and many fruits and vegetables including cauliflower. This plate was made en suite with cauliflower tea wares.

The green of the leaves was produced through the addition of copper oxide to the surface of the plate and the white of the florets is the natural color of the refined earthenware clay. The entire body is coated in a lead glaze. Iron impurities in the glaze cause the white clay to have a yellowish cast.
ProvenanceHarry H. Coon Collection
Purchased from Helen McGhee, Palm Beach, FL