Rare Ashworth Real Ironstone China Black Ground Floral Plate 26cm

This handsome antique dinner plate is an excellent example of mid‑19th‑century Ashworth “Real Ironstone China,” displaying the bold decoration and robust potting that made the firm so successful. Measuring approximately 26 cm in diameter, the plate carries a striking black ground border richly painted with large stylised blossom heads and trumpet flowers, interspersed with shaded green leaves and touches of gilded foliage. The creamy ironstone body shows through in the crisply moulded petals, highlighted with fine red enamelling and subtle shadowing that give the design impressive depth and texture. The central well is left plain white, providing a calm visual contrast to the dramatic border and making the piece very usable for modern dining as well as display.

To the reverse, the plate bears the crowned banner printed mark associated with Ashworth & Bros, reading “REAL IRONSTONE CHINA,” confirming production after Ashworth’s acquisition of the Mason’s works. This trademark, together with the impressed and hand‑painted pattern and workman’s marks, is consistent with manufacture in the third quarter of the 19th century. The body is characteristically thick and durable, with a smooth, slightly bluish glaze typical of quality Staffordshire ironstone of the period. The foot ring is neatly turned and shows only minor, honest wear from use and age, in keeping with an original Victorian dinner service piece.

Condition appears good for an item of this age. The glaze is generally bright, with no obvious cracks or structural damage evident from the images. Any small firing specks, light utensil marks to the well or minimal rubbing to the high points of the enamels and gilding would be considered normal and do not detract from display. Collectors will appreciate the uncommon black enamel ground, which is less frequently encountered than the more typical dark cobalt blue borders in Ashworth and Mason patterns and gives the plate a particularly dramatic, almost japoniste presence when hung or placed on a stand.

This plate would be an attractive addition to a collection of Ashworth or Mason’s ironstone, Staffordshire ironstone generally, or Victorian polychrome dinner wares. Its strong yet elegant floral design sits comfortably alongside Gothic Revival, Aesthetic Movement and later Arts & Crafts interiors, and the generous 26 cm size makes it suitable for use as a dinner plate, small charger or cabinet piece. Whether acquired as a single showpiece or to complement an existing service, it offers a fine opportunity to own an authentic example of “Real Ironstone China” from one of the best‑known 19th‑century English makers.