Beech and Hancock tea and saucer set 1860 - Ref A6/1
James Beech was a manufacturer of a range of pottery designs and pottery in Staffordshire, England, during the second half of the 19th Century. In 1851 he formed a partnership with Hancock and the company became known as Beech and Hancock.
The company opened at Swan Bank Works in Burslem, Staffordshire. Beech's most prolific period was between 1857 and 1876 when he would have created the design above, known as the "Pekin" design. We know the design was created before 1861 because after this date, a black 'swan' was incorporated into the companies mark.
Now, look carefully at the design - what are the two Chinese figures doing?? Well, they were smoking opium, and, because of this fact, public outcry forced Beech to re-draw the 'Pekin' design. So, what we have here is quite a remarkable piece! The later design showed the opium smokers having been carefully erased and the design altered slightly.
This is a medium-sized cup and saucer duo - the cup measures roughly 7cm high and is 8.2cm in diameter, whilst the saucer measures a whopping 15 cm in diameter! Note, there is no 'well' in the saucer for the teacup to fit into, which is typical for this age.
Only the saucer shows the initials B&H and the 'Pekin" design, together with the numbers, 663.
There is some wear to paint on the rim of the cup as well as the saucer, but, considering its age, this set is in very nice condition with no sign of cracks or restoration. "Chinoiserie" designs were in vogue at this time and the above set is a fascinating example of an early polychrome transfer, being hand painted on a transfer.This is a genuine antique. Please remember the classification of an antique is that it should be 100 years old, OR MORE. There are many articles being offered as 'antiques' when, clearly, they are not.
Price R 235.00
Post R 55.00
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