Rockingham China Works; Brameld & Co.

British; English, active 1820–1842

Dessert plate, c. 1826–1830

Bone china

3.4 x 25.7 cm

Collection of the Winnipeg Art Gallery; Acquired with funds from the Cavendish Investing Ltd. donation in memory of Mr. and Mrs. R.H.G. Bonnycastle

2000-131

Categories:

Ceramic, Decorative Arts Ceramic

The Rockingham China Works (located on the estate of Earl Fitzwilliam, Marquess of Rockingham) was not known by this name until 1826 when, under the ownership of the Brameld family, the factory began producing porcelain with the goal of attracting the upper-class market. Rockingham was quickly recognized for its high-quality bone china of wonderful translucency. Unfortunately, while the Bramelds stressed artistic excellence, commercial realities were ignored; by the late 1830s the pottery was in chaos and the factory closed in 1842. Rockingham’s range of shapes and patterns were extensive, though dessert service shapes following natural forms such as the WAG piece are rare. The best-known example is the primrose leaf, seen in this plate, dating c. 1830, Brameld’s finest production period.