Maker: Unattributed Maker  Pattern: Willow

These oval pots go under various names, but their purpose was singular. Today most often called a bourdaloue supposedly so named after Pere Louis Bourdaloue (1632-1704) a Jesuit preacher at the court of Louis XIV, whose long sermons left the ladies of the court in some discomfort. However, the first known bourdaloue was of Dutch delftware and made about 1710, so this explanation appears to be apocryphal. They are also known as coach pots and crinoline slippers. They were designed to offer particular convenience for ladies forced to endure long coach journies, operas as well as church services.
No backstamp.
Light crazing with a tiny chip to the inside rim. The handle has a few signs of wear mainly to the tip of the spur. Overall an excellent example of such an unusual piece.

Dimensions: 21.5 cm x 9 cm & 10 cm high / 8.5 ins x 3.5 ins & 4 ins high