Pair of Antique English Coalport Porcelain Shell Dishes

• England, circa 1825 by Coalport
• Dimensions: 8 1/2 inches at widest point, 7 1/2 inches from handle to opposite side

Coalport was one of the leading manufacturers in the 19th century in Staffordshire. They produced a staggering range of porcelain products of all shapes and styles. They worked alongside other great manufacturers at that time such as Chamberlain Worcester, Davenport, Derby, and Minton.

When we think of the manufacturer Coalport, we think of the one factory that became extremely famous. Actually, in the beginning, there were two factories both run by brothers – one by Thomas and the other one by John. Although the factories produced the same types of porcelain, ultimately, the John Rose factory proved to be more successful and profitable. John bought out his brother’s factory in 1814 and at that point the factory became quite famous. Very early Coalport porcelain was unmarked (circa 1805 and before) and in reality, marks were rarely used before 1820.

Our exceptional pair of Antique English Coalport Porcelain Shell Dishes are stunning. There is a wonderful group of flowers consisting of orange, pink, and purple dotted with yellow centers, and with green leaves set on a white oval background. Circling this oval shape is a wide border of cobalt blue. Interspersed in this border are three scalloped edged oval shapes with white backgrounds containing the same beautiful hand-painted floral designs that are in the middle of each dish. Situated between these 3 sections, are little decorative areas containing the colors that are used throughout the dishes. A scalloped edge in gilt holds the whole piece together and adds to the additional gilt that is used throughout this piece. As part of the design of these shaped dishes, there is a curved upright handle which is decorated with white from the underside which also has gilt decoration. The handle is similar in design to the three feet that each dish resides on. These dishes are really quite special!