Set of 6 antique Georgian Masons Ironstone 'Japan Basket' Plates

A set of six hand-painted plates, beautifully designed with a strong Chinoiserie influence, showing various large chrysanthemum and Oriental flower designs. The colour palette is skilfully put together using a range of oranges and peaches which are off-set by strong cobalt blue and the use of a paler sky blue. Unusually this set has a white notched and indented rim to it. These plates make a wonderful and decorative display statement.

History ~
An early Mason design called ‘Basket Japan’, which was used between 1813 – 1845. The base of each plate carries one of the earliest Mason’s marks – the straight line impress stating ‘Mason’s Patent Ironstone China’ in a single line together with a large blue printed mason’s Crown and banner, dating them to circa 1813 – 1820, in the reign of George III.

Made by Mason’s Ironstone, Lane Delph, Staffordshire, England. The Mason works were founded by two brothers, Charles and George Mason in 1802. Charles Mason is credited with having invented ironstone china in 1813. Ironstone was a heavy earthenware which was slightly translucent. It was known for its strength and was suitable to make larger and more durable pottery, which was also less expensive. Whilst Charles’s formula was a closely guarded secret it was believed to include feldspar and china clay, and a very small quantity of iron slag. The trade name ‘Patent Ironstone China’ was registered by the company in 1813 but expired in 1827.

Condition ~
Good antique condition, no chips or cracks.

Dimensions ~
Each - H 2.5 | Diameter of rim 21.5 cm