These transferware pieces rarely survived over the years as they are so intricate in their design.  Called a chestnut bowl, or "Castañera" in Spanish, it is a specialized bowl designed for serving chestnuts, with a reticulated (pierced) or slotted design at its sides to allow for steam to escape and excess syrup to drain. These bowls were particularly popular in the 18th and 19th centuries, with fine examples often featuring elaborate decorations and being part of a larger dish service.  This stunning blue and white example comes from the Staffordshire pottery Booths and depicts a gorgeous bucolic scene  with a farmer opening the gate for his small herd of sheep and a few cattle to graze. His dog is seated next to him, and their rural English cottage is in the background. The detail is delightful; a collectors coveted scene including sheep and cows. The intricate open reticulated detail is just stunning.  The handles are adorned with tiny leaves and flowers.  

Measures: 9" x 2" deep

Condition: Some of the tiny flowers have small chips and I have taken numerous photos to show this close up.  At first glance, these small flaws aren't really noticeable. Only upon close inspection to give the condition report for this listing did I really notice these imperfections. There are no other chips or cracks. Overall, considering age and the intricacy in design it is in Gorgeous condition!

To learn more about English transferware and see it in many practical and decorative uses please visit me at one of the places below:

BLOG: www.nancysdailydish.blogspot.com
PINTEREST: www.pinterest.com/transferware
FACEBOOK: http://www.facebook.com/pages/English-Transferware/277105748523
TWITTER: www.twitter.com/transferware

Featured on Etsy November 2012:

http://www.etsy.com/blog/en/2012/collecting-english-transferware-one-womans-story