Wedgwood, circa 1775

Reference: Robin Reilly, "Wedgewood" (Stockton Press, 1989) describes this form as "Fruit Bowl with Cover" [known as a chestnut or orange basket]. He also shows a photo of an example from the Wedgwood Museum "...c.1775. This early example of a shape which is still in production is notable for having an unpierced base" This is the exact design of the present lot. Note: This reference and information was kindly brought to our attention by Earl Buckman, President, Wedgwood International Seminar.
The Design for both the cover and the basket are illustrated in "The Queen's Ware Catalogue" published by Wedgwood and Wedgwood, 1774. Catalogue plate 9, design 32. The basket in the Wedgwood factory illustration is of the same design as the present lot but is pierced and titled "Pierced chestnut or orange basket" (also see Kathy Niblett, "A USEFUL PARTNER-- THOMAS WEDGWOOD 1734-1788, p. 17, PLATE 12, in Northern Ceramic Society Journal, Vol. 5, 1984, Printed and bound by George Street Press Limited, Fancy Walk, Stafford).

MARKS: Stamped "Wedgwood".

Dimensions: H.:8 in. W.:10 1/2 in

Condition: About a 2 inch area of the cover shows evidence of a repair. Please note that the restoration does not show on the exterior of the cover. The rim of the cover has three spur marks from the firing process.The rim of the basket has three tiny marks spur marks made during the firing process.