POWERHOUSE COLLECTION

Porcelain teapot by Worcester Royal Porcelain Co

Object No. 154

This porcelain teapot, with a blue over glaze enamel and applied gilding in the 'Japonisme' style, was made by the Worcester Royal Porcelain Co. Ltd of Worcester, England, in about 1880. Whether crafted in pottery, porcelain or silver, teapots were among the first objects to reflect the changes in fashionable styles of the day. This example illustrates the strong influence of Japanese design on English ceramics which would have been admired in fashionable Aesthetic circles. Influencing the visual arts, literature and fashionable living, the Aesthetic Movement developed in Britain from the 1860s, ending with the 1895 trial of the writer Oscar Wilde, the movement's best-known advocate and exponent. Also popular in the USA and Australia, it was based on the cult of the beautiful and all things 'artistic' Opposing middle-class styles, based on the past, aesthetic artist-designers were among the first to refine and simplify nineteenth century decorative arts, interiors and dress. They were particularly inspired by Japanese art, which was rediscovered by the West in the 1850s.

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Summary

Object Statement

Teapot and lid, porcelain, Worcester Royal Porcelain Company Ltd, Worcester, Worcestershire, England, 1880

Physical Description

Teapot and lid, blue overglaze enamel and applied gilding in Japonisme style. Teapot shaped with an octagonal lobed bowl and a tall oogee shaped handle. The lid has a small knop. The spout is slim and curved. The body is decorated with transfer printed blue and white diaper pattern and gold ferns. Maker's mark under base.

DIMENSIONS

Height

185 mm

Width

145 mm

PRODUCTION

Notes

This teapot was made by the Worcester Royal Porcelain Co Ltd in 1880. The letter under the crest under the base is 'R' indicating the piece was made in 1880.

HISTORY

Notes

The teapot was purchased directly from the Royal Worcester Porcelain Company by the Museum in 1882.

SOURCE

Credit Line

Purchased 1882

Acquisition Date

28 November 1882

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