This is a very collectable and attractive Scottish pottery fruit bowl. It is signed and dated on the reverse: D.W / LEAF / 1916.
It an attractive shallow bowl that measures 8 1/2 inches in diameter and with a height of 1 3/4 inches.
The decoration is all hand-painted by Dolly Watson - who was the sister-in-law of Elizabeth Amour (of Bough Pottery fame).
The decoration is painted onto a blank - which has probably been supplied by an English pottery, It was common in the early 20th century for small Scottish potteries to have white ceramics supplied and decorators would paint the decoration on the blanks. Sadly the quality of the ceramic plate is not as good as the painting on it - it does not give a nice ring when gently tapped. On close up inspection there seems to be a flaw in the original blank - and Dolly has ignored this and painted and glazed over it. Perhaps in the middle of WWI it was difficult to get a hold of these blanks from Newcastle - and each one was used regardless of any flaws? I have photographed this area for your inspection - and the last photo probably is the clearest one of the issue with the original blank bowl.
So, there is a certain delicacy to it - and it is a minor miracle that it has survived from 1916 until today. It is now 109 years old.
The painted decoration certainly reveals the influence of Bough artwork in the design. The main background colour is a lilac grey and this is embellished with green and blue toned leaves and lime green apples - with are also a couple of patches of a wine red colour. There are little dots of yellow running around the rim. The back is all quickly hand-painted in mottled green - with the base unpainted. The thing that is particularly attractive and indeed collectable about this plate is the motto that is painted around the rim. This read: BARRIERS ARE MADE FOR THOSE WHO CANNOT FLY.
These early 20th century Scottish motto ware bowls are much sought after - a similar piece of motto ware by Dolly was sold at Bonhams in 2015. This made £1625 (including premium). It was a larger and more sophisticated item. But it does reflect the demand for these rare pieces. This is also reflected in my asking price. You wont find another!
Lovely collectable piece of Scottish Pottery and in fair antique condition and probably only for display purposes and not for use at a table.
It will be sent with Royal Mail Tracked (Medium Parcel). This will be applied to your order at the checkout. I will also have it privately insured in transit to you against loss or damage.