Description: This is a rare & unique antique Blue Willow ware Fish/Meat Drainer Plate, originally used in the 19th & early 20th centuries. It was designed to sit in a larger platter, allowing boiled fish or meat to drain through the holes, keeping the dish from becoming soggy. This specific drainer stands out with it's square shape (5"x5") & four small feet at the corners, which raise the base to a little over 1/2" tall, an unusual practical feature not found in most other Blue Willow drainers of the period. The plate features the iconic Blue Willow Pattern, including the following key elements: Two Birds flying over a Pagoda, Three Figures on a Bridge, A Willow Tree & Apple Blossom Tree, & about 3/4 of the Boat usually seen in full on larger designs. Notably, this piece lacks the "Fence" commonly seen along the bottom edge of Blue Willow designs. Due to its compact size, it appears there wasn't enough space for the fence detail, making this version quite distinctive. The drainer has one large central hole & 20 smaller holes for drainage, & is made from thick sturdy china with a rich glaze. While there is some expected crazing & light glaze ware on the sides & bottoms of the feet, these signs of age add to the character & authenticity of the piece. Additionally, typical production flaws such as blisters & pinholes in the glaze (4-5 on top, a few more on the bottom) are present. The piece is unmarked, which is common for many early Blue Willow ware items, but , there is an indistinct mark that could be a "J", "8", or a "3". Though the design does suggests it dates to the late 19th or early 20th century. The craftsmanship & detailing, coupled with its small size & raised feet, make this drainer a truly rare collector's item. This piece would make a wonderful addition to any Blue Willow collection or as a decorative piece in a vintage or antique-themed kitchen.
Price: 136.89 USD
Location: Salem, Oregon
End Time: 2024-11-20T22:14:54.000Z
Shipping Cost: N/A USD
Product Images
Item Specifics
All returns accepted: ReturnsNotAccepted
Origin: England
Number of Items in Set: one piece
Antique: Yes
Shape: Square
Occasion: All Occasions
Year Manufactured: 1890
Item Length: 5"
Vintage: Yes
Department: Adult
Care Instructions: Hand Wash Only
Original/Licensed Reproduction: Original
Plate Diameter: 12.7 cm
Item Height: 1.27 cm
Style: Victorian
Features: Crazing, Glaze Wear, Feet, Unique Square Shape, Unmarked
Production Style: Antique
Finish: Glossy Glaze
Handmade: Yes
Item Width: 12.7 cm
Pattern: Blue Willow
Color: Blue & White
Set Includes: Drainer Plate
Material: Ceramic
Brand: Unmarked
Type: Fish/Meat Drainer
Era: Victorian (1837-1900)
Theme: Blue Willow
Time Period Manufactured: 1850-1899
Country/Region of Manufacture: United Kingdom
Production Technique: Transferware
Backstamp: Unmarked, indistinct mark, "J","8", or "3"
Item Weight: 6.8 oz
Product Line: Willow Blue
