The Story
A reassuringly heavyweight antique, this serving plate is a premium example of the world-famous Willow Pattern, which was originally designed by Thomas Minton himself in 1780. This specific piece was manufactured by Minton's in Stoke-on-Trent around 1927. It features the iconic Chinoiserie landscape in a deep cobalt blue, but is elevated by decorative "tab" handles with scrolled detailing and hand-applied gold gilt accents—a more formal and luxurious version of the standard blue-and-white Willow wares.
The Details
Dimensions: 24.5cm W (including tab handles).
Maker: Minton’s, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, England.
Pattern: Willow (with a beautiful blue tint to the glaze).
Era: c. 1927 (Marked with the crown and globe back-stamp).
Design: Circular serving plate with side tab handles and gold gilt scrollwork.
Condition: Excellent antique condition. It is remarkably free of the pattern or gilt wear often seen in pieces of this age. There are only a few insignificant utensil marks to the center, visible only under direct light. No chips, cracks, or repairs.
Why It’s Special
While the Willow pattern was produced by almost every Staffordshire pottery, a piece made by Minton's (the pattern's original creator) carries a special historical weight. The addition of the tab handles and the gold gilt makes this a "cake plate" or "bread plate" meant for a more refined tea service. The glaze has a distinct, subtle blue tint that gives the cobalt transfer a wonderful depth and luminosity.
Styling Tips
Afternoon Tea Centerpiece: Use this as the base for a cake display or to serve delicate finger sandwiches. The gold gilt edges add a touch of sparkle that makes any table setting feel special.
Dresser Standout: Its 24.5cm width makes it a substantial piece for a farmhouse dresser. Place it in a plate stand to highlight the scrolled handles and the famous "two birds flying high" motif.
The Story
A reassuringly heavyweight antique, this serving plate is a premium example of the world-famous Willow Pattern, which was originally designed by Thomas Minton himself in 1780. This specific piece was manufactured by Minton's in Stoke-on-Trent around 1927. It features the iconic Chinoiserie landscape in a deep cobalt blue, but is elevated by decorative "tab" handles with scrolled detailing and hand-applied gold gilt accents—a more formal and luxurious version of the standard blue-and-white Willow wares.
The Details
Dimensions: 24.5cm W (including tab handles).
Maker: Minton’s, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, England.
Pattern: Willow (with a beautiful blue tint to the glaze).
Era: c. 1927 (Marked with the crown and globe back-stamp).
Design: Circular serving plate with side tab handles and gold gilt scrollwork.
Condition: Excellent antique condition. It is remarkably free of the pattern or gilt wear often seen in pieces of this age. There are only a few insignificant utensil marks to the center, visible only under direct light. No chips, cracks, or repairs.
Why It’s Special
While the Willow pattern was produced by almost every Staffordshire pottery, a piece made by Minton's (the pattern's original creator) carries a special historical weight. The addition of the tab handles and the gold gilt makes this a "cake plate" or "bread plate" meant for a more refined tea service. The glaze has a distinct, subtle blue tint that gives the cobalt transfer a wonderful depth and luminosity.
Styling Tips
Afternoon Tea Centerpiece: Use this as the base for a cake display or to serve delicate finger sandwiches. The gold gilt edges add a touch of sparkle that makes any table setting feel special.
Dresser Standout: Its 24.5cm width makes it a substantial piece for a farmhouse dresser. Place it in a plate stand to highlight the scrolled handles and the famous "two birds flying high" motif.
