Moffitts Antiques

Antique Georgian Wedgwood Gilt Porcelain Dish c.1820, 21cm

Antique Georgian Wedgwood Gilt Porcelain Dish c.1820, 21cm

Regular price £47.20 GBP
Regular price Sale price £47.20 GBP
Sale Sold out
Tax included.

This fine early 19th‑century Wedgwood dish is an elegant example of Georgian porcelain, dating to around the 1820s. Made by the celebrated English factory founded by Josiah Wedgwood, the piece combines refined neoclassical design with lavish hand‑applied gilding, making it highly desirable for both collectors of early Wedgwood and enthusiasts of Regency ceramics.

The dish is of circular form, measuring approximately 21 cm across (see final image with tape measure for confirmation of size). The gently everted rim frames a wide decorative border surrounding a plain central well, a layout characteristic of Regency taste where richly ornamented edges balanced a quieter centre suitable for service or display.

The border is particularly striking. It features a continuous band of stylised shell or anthemion‑like roundels, each reserved in a soft peach‑buff tone and densely enriched with scrolling burnished gilt. These medallions sit against a deep cobalt‑blue ground, further highlighted with fine cross‑hatching, triangular devices and delicate golden flourishes. Between the roundels are pointed white motifs that rise into the border like small flame‑shaped reserves, also picked out with gilded outlines. Together these elements create a rhythmic, almost architectural pattern that reflects contemporary neoclassical and Egyptian Revival influences popular in Britain in the first quarter of the 19th century.

The central well is largely undecorated, with only a faint, almost ghosted sunburst or rosette visible under the glaze, suggesting the dish was intended both for use and for display. The white body has the slightly greyed, softly glazed appearance typical of early Wedgwood porcelain of this period, distinct from later brighter bone china. The rim is edged with a narrow line of gold, now gently worn from age and handling.

The underside is plain and neatly turned, bearing a simple printed red “WEDGWOOD” mark to the centre. This early transfer mark, combined with the style of decoration and paste, supports a dating in the Georgian period, circa 1820. It is not a modern reproduction; the wear, glaze character and gilding technique are consistent with genuine early 19th‑century production.

Condition is commensurate with age and use. The images show the surface clearly, including typical signs of period wear: some rubbing and loss to the gilt on the rim and high points of the border, minor utensils marks and speckling in the well, and small firing or age‑related imperfections to the glaze. Any more noticeable edge nicks, glaze flaws or discoloured spots are documented in the photographs so that prospective buyers can assess the piece accurately. Overall, the dish presents very well, with the decoration remaining vivid and attractive.

This rare pattern, combining cobalt blue and rich gilt on a warm ivory ground, displays beautifully in a cabinet or on a wall and would integrate seamlessly into a collection of Georgian or Regency ceramics. It also pairs effectively with other early Wedgwood porcelain and stone china wares of similar date. Multiple dishes of this design are available; please refer to the listing page to view and select specific pieces or to assemble a matched set.

Whether acquired as a stand‑alone display piece, to complete a period table service, or as an investment in early English porcelain, this authentic antique Wedgwood gilt dish offers both decorative impact and historical interest. Its refined neoclassical border, scarce red printed mark and genuine early 19th‑century manufacture make it a noteworthy addition to any serious collection of British ceramics.

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