Maker: Adams  Pattern: Chinese Bird

This is the original version of William Adam's famous design, which the Adams factory later reproduced in the 20th Century. Usually known as Chinese Bird, it is sometimes called Bird in Basket.
This plate has impeccable provenance and came from the Dean & Mary Rockwell Collection, which was dispersed by sale at Phillips, London a few years ago. Bears on the back the Rockwell Collection acquisition sticker with number 928, plus some handwritten notes by Dean, on a label, about the history of the design.
Small impressed ADAMS backstamp, which was in use from 1789 to 1809.
An apparent stress crack in manufacture has caused a tight hairline for about 3.25 ins round the top of the bowl, which is barely visible on the face. The rim is rubbed in places. The face is bright and clean, with only a few knife marks and a little light crazing to the glaze in places. Quite frankly this plate is about as good as they come and on display looks perfect. Original Chinese Bird is so hard to find these days.

Dimensions: 25 cm / 9.75 ins