A Minton Majolica Chestnut Serving Dish (circa 1866)

The piece bears maker's marks for the Minton pottery, shape number #594 and year cypher for 1872.

This dish feature realistically moulded half-open chestnuts and leaves. The rich brown and green majolica glazes add to the realism, while the brilliant blue interior all add to its attractiveness. The use of decoration to indicate the function of the piece was a Victorian pre-occupation. The development of these rich, natural coloured glazes made this all the more possible.

The arrival of roasted chestnuts at the table in such a dish would unmistakably be a treat and generate admiring comments from guests.