Regency Spode Reticulated Chestnut Basket, Long Bridge Pattern, C.1810-1815

An elegant antique Spode pottery chestnut basket produced in Staffordshire during the Regency period, circa 1810-1815. Decorated in underglaze blue transferware, it features the scarce Long Bridge Pattern P619, an early Chinese-inspired design that predates the famous Willow Pattern.

Printed from an engraved copper plate using the traditional transferware process, the decoration displays exceptional clarity and precision. Unlike the standard Willow Pattern, Long Bridge depicts only two figures crossing the bridge, while the distant landscape is distinguished by two boats carrying standing figures in conical straw hats, making the pattern immediately recognisable to collectors.

The finely pierced oval body is complemented by original rope-twist handles, while the unmarked base retains kiln spur marks and characteristic cobalt glaze pooling associated with early nineteenth-century Spode production. Rare openwork baskets in this pattern are among the most desirable examples of early English blue transferware.

Dimensions:

• Length 21.5 cm

• Width 15 cm

• Height 6.5 cm

• Weight 258 g

Condition:

Very good antique condition. There is one small firing crack to the upper rim caused during manufacture. No restoration detected. Otherwise excellent for a pottery basket of this age.

Please study the accompanying photographs carefully as they form an integral part of this description. If you have any questions, we will be happy to answer them. The item will be shipped with full tracking and insurance. It is important to note that shipping costs include labour, packaging and postage.