Antique Wedgwood Creamware Octagonal Peacock Plate for John Mortlock c.1900

Indulge in the understated luxury of fine English ceramics with this exquisite antique Wedgwood creamware octagonal plate, decorated in rich transfer-printed detail with a magnificent peacock design and made expressly for the prestigious London retailer John Mortlock.

This elegant Wedgwood transferware creamware plate combines the refined simplicity of classic creamware with the drama and opulence of a full peacock motif. The unusual octagonal shape adds a distinctive architectural feel, making it an exceptional display piece as well as a refined addition to a curated table setting or cabinet of antiques.

Key Features

• Maker: Wedgwood
• Retailer: John Mortlock (special commission / retailer-marked)
• Material: Classic English creamware (fine earthenware)
• Decoration: Transfer-printed peacock design
• Form: Octagonal plate
• Style: Antique English transferware
• Colour palette: Traditional cream ground with contrasting printed decoration

Design & Aesthetic

The focal point of this plate is the regal peacock, a symbol of beauty and refinement long favoured in Victorian and Edwardian decorative arts. The transfer-printed design is crisply rendered, with fine detailing to the feathers and surrounding motifs, showcasing the technical skill for which Wedgwood is renowned.

The octagonal form lends the piece a sophisticated, geometric profile that stands apart from standard round plates. The warm, subtle tone of the creamware body provides a luxurious background for the dark, intricate print, creating a striking contrast that reads as both classic and timeless.

Wedgwood & John Mortlock

This plate was produced by Wedgwood, one of England’s most celebrated ceramic manufacturers, and supplied to John Mortlock, a distinguished London china and glass retailer known for offering high-end tableware and special commissions. Mortlock’s association with leading potteries such as Wedgwood ensured that his clientele enjoyed exclusive and fashionable designs of exceptional quality.

Pieces made for Mortlock are especially sought after by collectors of fine English pottery and porcelain, as they often represent limited or retailer-specific variations on classic patterns, with an added layer of provenance and prestige.

Collectability & Uses

This antique Wedgwood creamware peacock plate is ideal for:

• Collectors of Wedgwood, Mortlock, or English transferware
• Interior designers seeking a statement accent for a cabinet, dresser, or wall display
• Connoisseurs of peacock-themed or avian decorative arts
• Those building a refined tablescape with period-authentic English ceramics

Whether displayed on a stand, hung as part of a plate wall, or integrated into a formal table setting, this octagonal plate instantly elevates its surroundings with a touch of historic elegance.

Condition

As an authentic antique, this plate will naturally show the light, age-appropriate characteristics one would expect of early creamware transferware. Any notable imperfections, if present, should be considered part of its history and charm, enhancing its appeal as a genuine period piece rather than a modern reproduction.

Styling Suggestions

Pair this piece with other creamware or blue-and-white transferware for a sophisticated, layered display, or let it stand alone as a focal highlight. Its octagonal outline and peacock motif make it particularly effective in:

• A curated display cabinet of English ceramics
• A formal dining room or drawing room
• A luxury boutique, gallery, or hotel interior

A Timeless Investment in English Ceramics

This Wedgwood transferware creamware octagonal peacock plate for John Mortlock represents the best of English ceramic artistry: elegant materials, beautifully executed decoration, and distinguished provenance. It is a piece to enjoy now and to pass on, a refined addition to any serious collection of antique pottery and porcelain.