Cup & Saucer decorated with bluebells. Nantgarw C1815.

About the Item

A particularly pleasing and restrained form of decoration for this period, which allows the beauty of the porcelain to be clearly seen. Nantgarw porcelain is particularly fine, and was much prized by the London decorating workshops, where this example was probably decorated. The Nantgarw porcelain factory was established in Nantgarw, Wales, in 1813 by William Billingsley, a talented porcelain painter, and Samuel Walker, a businessman. The factory gained renown for producing some of the finest and most delicate porcelain of its time, often rivaling the quality of renowned European porcelain manufacturers like Sèvres and Meissen. Nantgarw porcelain was distinguished by its exceptionally thin body and translucent appearance, achieved through the use of high-quality materials and innovative firing techniques. The factory specialized in producing exquisite tableware, ornamental pieces, and decorative objects, often decorated with intricate hand-painted designs featuring floral motifs, landscapes, and romantic scenes. Despite its reputation for producing exquisite porcelain, the wastage rate was high and the Nantgarw factory faced financial difficulties and struggled to compete with larger manufacturers. The factory changed ownership several times throughout its history, and production ceased altogether in 1820, just seven years after it was established. However, the porcelain produced at Nantgarw during its brief existence remains highly sought after by collectors for its exceptional quality and rarity.

Attributed to:

Nantgarw China Works (Manufacturer)

Dimensions:

Height: 4 in (10.16 cm)Diameter: 5 in (12.7 cm)

Style:

Neoclassical (Of the Period)

Materials and Techniques:

Porcelain,Turned

Place of Origin:

Wales

Period:

1810-1819