A Moorcroft vase in the Pansy design by William Moorcroft.
The height is 12.8cm (5.03 inch).
The impressed MOORCROFT and MADE IN ENGLAND stamps on the base along with the impressed shape identification number indicate a date range c1918 to 1926. Nb referral to reference book advises there are similar to stamps found from 1926 to 1928 but without the shape identification number due to a change in the manufacturing process.
The early pansy pattern was introduced c1911 with further development taking place later. One of the reference books recommended by Moorcroft shows examples of this version of the pansy design typical of the 1920's/1930's which fits in nicely with the date assessment above.
This vase has been closely inspected and assessed as in excellent vintage/antique condition.
The vase seems virtually unaffected by crazing with only the very faint and reassuring 'micro crazing' normally present on these old pieces. Interestingly, on their website Moorcroft advise their pottery is made from porous earthenware and crazing is just part of the normal ageing process. They talk about how this natural crazing is used by antiques salerooms to help establish the vintage of an item, and identify any restoration.
There is a great deal of content in the design with the pansy pattern all around the outer surface. The colours remain bright and on the dark blue ground make for a very attractive item.
An opportunity for a collector to add a piece of vintage, and possibly antique (based on the 100 year old definition) Moorcroft pottery, from the highly collectable pansy range, to a collection.
While beautiful Moorcroft items are still been produced, antique and vintage items have an appeal of their own and indeed many are now part of collections.
This Moorcroft vase in the pansy design is available online only however if visiting the Antiques Centre in York please view Cabinet 138 situated on the Lower Ground Floor to view other examples of Moorcroft Pottery.
Nb. For this item the dealer offers postage to UK addresses only.
