Copeland “Kew” Platter

W.T. Copeland & Sons "KEW" pattern is typically found with the printed mark that was in use c.1867 to 1890. This pottery was the successor to Copeland & Garrett (c. 1833-1847) which succeeded Josiah Spode (c. 1770-1833). After 1890, Copeland began using the Spode name again and continued until 1970. The “Kew” pattern was introduced in 1882, named after the Royal Botanical Gardens at Kew, near Richmond, London. The design, with a border of chrysanthemum blooms and geometric style panels around a central stylized floral arrangement in a large vase, with a fence and additional floral in the background. This is the Aesthetic style which was very popular in the 1870s and 1880s and often incorporated elements inspired by Japanese design. The pattern was printed on both earthenware and porcelain in several colors including blue, red, brown, and black, sometimes with other colors added by hand as in this example. Photo courtesy of eBay seller Modern Design Antiques.