An unusual and intriguing pair of small bottle vases by Spode, the globular bodies with graduated scale and pendant gilding against rich cobalt blue grounds, the elongated necks gently flared to the rims and painted with colourful bouquets of garden flowers. Both vases with the painted mark SPODE and pattern number 217 in red.

Although these vases were produced by the Spode factory they are not of any recorded Spode shape and the scale gilding is similar to, but not the same, as any documented Spode design. In addition the pattern number 217 was never issued and would have been in any case too early for this type of decoration. Up to date research has shown that the most likely explanation is that these items were produced by Spode as matchings for the products of another factory. Which factory that was and why they were made is at present unknown and would merit further investigation.

Date: Circa 1820
Height: 4  3/4 inches (12cm)
Condition: Very good. One vase with a small 3/16 inch (5mm) old repair to the rim together with a couple of minor glaze flaws to the inside only and typical light spots of wear.
Item No. 1781

Price: £ 385 pair.