Scottish Prattware “macaroni” Tea Can, G. Gordon, Circa 1790

A rare Scottish tea box made of fine earthenware, or pearlware, produced around 1790 at George Gordon’s factory in Morison’s Haven, Prestonpans. George Gordon began production there in 1772. The separate Bankfoot workshop was not acquired until 1795; this box therefore belongs to the early Morison’s Haven period.

Rectangular in shape with beveled sides, it is heavily molded in relief with satirical “Macaroni” figures. On one side, an elegant gentleman in a tall wig is accompanied by his servant; the other side depicts a caricatured lady with her maid. This subject, drawn from English fashion caricatures of the years 1765–1790, was adopted by several British pottery factories in the late Georgian era.

The Prattware design, in cobalt blue, ochre, green, and brown, is complemented by small flowers along the sides and blue ornaments at the corners. The original colored glazes are almost entirely preserved, fresh and vivid, highlighting the faces and details of the costumes. Tea, then an expensive imported commodity, was stored in small specialized boxes like this one.

Dimensions: Weight 190 g; height 12.3 cm; width 8.6 cm; depth 6.2 cm.

Condition: Very good for its age. Two small chips on the upper rim and a small loss of colored glaze at the tip of the lady’s nose. A fine crack is visible around the lower rim; it is confined to the glaze and does not penetrate the clay body. Examination under UV light revealed no other cracks, restorations, or retouching.

We invite you to carefully examine the attached photographs, which are an integral part of this description. We are available to answer any questions you may have. The item will be shipped with full tracking and insurance.