Plate

MakerMade by Josiah Wedgwood & Sons, Ltd. (English, 1895 - present)

RetailerPossibly sold by Mellen & Hewes Co. (American)

Original OwnerOriginally owned by Mrs. Bruse Burke

Date1897

MediumMechanically-molded ironstone with underglaze cobalt blue decoration

DimensionsPrimary Dimensions (diameter): 9 1/8in. (23.2cm)

ClassificationsCeramics

Credit LineGift of Mrs. Huntington Norton

Object number1956.32.1

DescriptionRound, ironstone plate with underglaze cobalt blue transfer-printed borders and a pattern titled, "The Charter Oak, Hartford Conn." The circular pattern printed in the center of the plate shows a large oak tree with a thick trunk and deep branches that extend to the right. The tree is in a field, with a small fence to the left of the tree. The pattern is surrounded by a border at the rim, with various large flowers and leaves on a field of light blue. A narrow border at the outer edge of the rim consists of a scalloped white line and a series of blue circles creating a geometric pattern. There is light crazing over all the surfaces of the plate, and some discoloration on the bottom. Several spots of dirt have adhered to the bottom of the plate, specifically, along the rim.

NotesHistorical Note: The Charter Oak, located on the Wyllys estate in Hartford, hid the state's royal charter when a representative of the English government attempted to seize it in 1687. The tree fell down during a storm in 1856. The patriotic story of the Charter Oak has since become a deeply rooted part of Connecticut's history.

Status

On view