Rare Staffordshire Mulberry Sugar Bowl With Lid, Lion Mask Handles, C.1840

A rare mid-19th century English mulberry transferware sugar bowl (sucrier) with original domed lid, Staffordshire, c.1840. Decorated in a distinctive mulberry, deep berry-purple transfer print, this bowl features an elegant neoclassical garden scene with children and a beehive. Both sides display bold lion mask handles with molded rings, referencing classical design motifs. The lid is surmounted by a tall finial and further decorated with a matching vignette. The transfer-printed scenes on both the bowl and lid are closely based on the neoclassical designs of Adam Buck (1759–1833), one of Regency England’s most influential illustrators.                                 
 Matching hand-painted letters in underglaze purple are found on the bowl and lid, a typical control mark in Staffordshire production of this era. Mulberry transferware of this quality is especially prized by collectors, particularly with the original lid intact. The crisp print, strong color and excellent overall condition make this an attractive piece for any advanced collection of English pottery. Condition: Minor enamel loss to the tip of the finial. Otherwise, excellent antique condition. No cracks, chips, or restorations. Dimensions: Height with lid: 12 cm Diameter at rim: 10.3 cm Shipping & Packaging: Fully tracked and insured delivery. Carefully packed using recycled materials where possible. Please review all photographs carefully as they form part of the description, and feel free to ask any questions.