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U.S. Congressional Library Plate, Staffordshire, Early 20th Century

Creator: Staffordshire
Offered by: The Great Republic

Description
Presented is a detailed rendering of the U.S. Library of Congress on a ceramic plate. A decorative ivy border encircles a view of the building from the east. Underneath the scene are the words, “U.S. Congressional Library.” This early 20th century plate is a great example of flow blue transfer print pottery.

This ceramic plate was decorated using the printing process call Flow Blue, a highly collectable method used to adorn antique china in white and blue patterns. Vintage Flow Blue dishware was exceeding popular during the Victorian era. In the late 18th century, Chinese porcelain was extremely sought-after, thanks to their rich and delicately detailed blue patterns hand painted on white backgrounds. However, due to trade prices, Chinese porcelain pieces were expensive and generally limited to the wealthier class.

To mimic the look of Chinese porcelain, English potters created Flow Blue transferware. In this process, a copperplate is engraved with a design and heated. Cobalt oxide is applied to the hot engraved plate, followed by a damp tissue paper laid flat to pick up the oxide. The marked tissue is lifted off the copperplate and applied to the pottery surface. The tissue paper is then washed off, leaving the intricate blue design. While the first Flow Blue patterns incorporated Oriental designs and motifs, eventually Victorian romantic sensibilities created a market for floral and pastoral patterns that highlighted English Culture.

CONDITION:

Overall very good condition. The plate has a few inherent imperfections from original production. Hairline cracks throughout, but they do not impact the structural integrity of the plate.

Dimensions: 9.125” Diameter, 1” Depth

Accompanied by our company's letter of authenticity.

More Information

Documentation:	Signed
Period:	1900-1919
Creation Date:	Early 20th Century
Styles / Movements:	Americana, Traditional
Incollect Reference #:	729392

Dimensions

D.	1 in;	Diam.	9.125 in;
D.	2.54 cm;	Diam.	23.18 cm;

Message from Seller:

Established in 2010, The Great Republic specializes in one-of-a-kind collectibles that honor American history, with a special focus on the rare and unique. Our collection is complete with rarities that are sure to wow, such as first edition books, antique hand-sewn flags from the Civil War, vintage travel posters, and original signatures from American presidents, such as George Washington and Abraham Lincoln, just to name a few. P: 719.471.6157 E: headquarters@great-republic.com

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