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18th Century Staffordshire Creamware Cauliflower Tea Caddy

$1,500
£1,135.12
€1,301.50
CA$2,098.50
A$2,284.27
CHF 1,211.69
MX$27,499.80
NOK 15,385.28
SEK 14,080.28
DKK 9,720.55

About the Item

Naturalistic Whimsy: Rare Staffordshire Creamware "Cauliflower" Tea Caddy (c. 1760) An exceptional mid-18th-century Staffordshire creamware tea caddy (or tea canister), brilliantly modeled in the naturalistic form of a cauliflower. This piece is a prime example of the "vegetable ware" craze that swept England in the 1750s and 60s, attributed to the work of William Greatbach and Josiah Wedgwood. The vessel demonstrates the masterful "trompe l'oeil" (trick of the eye) modeling of the period. The upper section mimics the florets of the cauliflower curd, utilizing the natural cream color of the earthenware body, textured with tiny raised nodes. The lower section is encased in overlapping, deeply molded leaves, glazed in a vibrant, translucent emerald green. This specific green glaze was a technological breakthrough developed by Josiah Wedgwood during his partnership with Thomas Whieldon, prized for its brilliance and stability. Attribution: This model is widely attributed to William Greatbach, a master block-cutter who supplied biscuit ware to Wedgwood, or to the Wedgwood-Whieldon partnership (c. 1759–1760), where the green glaze was perfected. Condition: Good antique condition. The green glaze remains vibrant with excellent translucency. Measurements: Height: 4 inches Width 3 1/2 inches Historical Context: In the mid-18th century, tea was a luxury commodity, and the vessels used to store it were status symbols. The fashion for "naturalism"—bringing the garden indoors—resulted in a delightful series of wares shaped like pineapples, melons, and cauliflowers. The "Cauliflower Ware" is particularly significant in ceramic history because it marks the moment Josiah Wedgwood began to apply scientific experimentation to glazing. His "Experiment 7" in 1759 resulted in this specific green glaze, which did not run or discolor in the kiln, allowing for the crisp, two-tone design seen here. (Ref: NY10645-krrx)
  • Attributed to:
    William Greatbatch (Manufacturer)
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 4 in (10.16 cm)Width: 3.5 in (8.89 cm)Depth: 2.75 in (6.99 cm)
  • Style:
    Georgian (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
    1760-1769
  • Date of Manufacture:
    1765
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use.
  • Seller Location:
    Downingtown, PA
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: NY10645-krxx1stDibs: LU861041938142

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