Maker: Spode  Pattern: Trophies

The earliest of the Spode Trophies patterns, this version is more fully known as Trophies Nankin and sometimes Hundred Antiques. Chinese Trophies were originally the trophies of war, but later were used to describe symbols of the arts and literature, which is what is depicted here. This pattern was introduced about 1800 and this platter is an early example. It is an unusual dish in that the runnels are a simple cross and there is a well at each end, offering uniformity and balance that is lacking in a single well version.
The backstamp is SPODE impressed and a blue workman's mark of two parallel lines with another slashed across in the form of a rudimentary cross.
There are some glazing blemishes occuring in manufacture, pitting and gritting, but nothing major. The glaze is sound and has that lovely pearly cobalt sheen to it. The two feet have been succesfully drilled at some stage so this platter may be easily hung on the wall.

Dimensions: 48.5 x 36 cm / 19.25 x 14.25 ins