Covered chestnut basket and stand (plate)

Covered chestnut basket and stand (plate)

Object NameCovered chestnut basket and stand (plate)

Manufacturer Royal Worcester (English, founded 1751)

Datec. 1775

OriginEngland

MediumPorcelain

DimensionsBasket: 5 1/4 × 6 × 8 1/4 in. (13.3 × 15.2 × 21 cm) Plate: 1 3/4 × 8 7/8 × 10 3/4 in. (4.4 × 22.5 × 27.3 cm)

ClassificationsDecorative Arts, Ceramics

Credit LineGift of Ann and Henry Brunnier. In the Ann and Henry Brunnier Collection, Brunnier Art Museum, University Museums, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa.

Object number2.8.72abc

Status

Not on view

Collections

Decorative Arts

CultureEnglish

Label TextTransfer-printed wares were first made at Worcester in 1757 and were one of the factory's most popular products. Many of the early wares were decorated in a variety of patterns based on late Ming porcelain using under glaze blue. The English, who were very fond of Chinese-inspired motifs, sometimes mistakenly identified its unfamiliar imagery. Frequently used in Chinese designs, the native pomegranate was incorrectly identified in the West as an onion, thus any pattern containing the fruit was erroneously coined an "onion pattern." The term grew in popularity and is still used today when referring to the design, illustrated on this covered chestnut basket and plate. The fruit clusters decorating the center of the plate and the interior of the basket are commonly referred to as the onion pattern. Used for serving warm chestnuts, the reticulated basket cover allowed air circulation so the nuts might cool. Worcester eventually became known for open-work like the practical device for this serving piece.

MarkingsScript in blue underglaze near edge

PeriodFirst Period

Locations