Circa 1860-80 Spode Copeland Fluted Blue Transferware Pitcher

Beautiful antique Copeland earthenware wash pitcher dating to approximately the 1880s, standing about 11½ inches tall. The pitcher is decorated in a lovely blue transfer-printed pastoral scene on a warm cream or ivory ground, depicting a picturesque rural cottage beside the water, surrounded by trees, foliage, and grazing cattle. This scene is from one of Edward Duncan's series entitled Rural Scenes.  In 1849 W. T. Copeland (Spode Copeland) commissioned Edward Duncan to paint a series of sepia watercolors, depicting English country life, which would extensively inspire a full range of tablewares.  The design was registered in 1850.

The pitcher has an especially attractive molded bamboo-style form. The upper neck is embossed with vertical, rounded ribs that resemble bamboo stalks, giving the piece a wonderful three-dimensional texture and an organic Victorian character. The bamboo-inspired relief continues around the base, creating a decorative fluted foot that complements the molded neck. The gracefully curved handle and distinctive shaped pouring lip complete the form.

The combination of the molded bamboo pattern, ivory earthenware body, and detailed blue transfer decoration makes this a particularly charming example of Victorian English pottery.

 In 1878 production grew limited.  Duncan scenes was printed in brown on a cream body earthenware.  The shape was called Amien Embossed which featured Gadroon rims.   A service was retained by the Copeland family as part of their private collection / dinner service and later passed to descendant Robert Copeland. 

Condition:  There is a crack one one side as shown.  Price has been reduced due to the crack.  Still a beautiful and useful piece. 
Impressed in an arched shape is the word Copeland over B
Measures: Appx 11 1/2” tall

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