Wedgewood Jasperware Padestal Bowl 1891-1908

This is a Wedgwood Pale Blue Jasperware Footed Pedestal Bowl featuring white bas-relief Neoclassical decorations.

1. Pattern & Design Features

• The Main Frieze ("Sacrifice to Flora / Classical Figures"): The continuous central band features hand-applied white relief figures depicted in Greco-Roman attire engaged in offerings, libations, and devotion.

• Upper Border: A classical grapevine and leaf garland runs along the outer rim.

• Base & Pedestal Foot: The fluted pedestal foot is embellished with applied white acanthus leaf / palm leaf motifs radiating from the base.

2. Material & Construction

• Jasperware Clay Body: Developed by Josiah Wedgwood in 1774, Jasperware is an unglazed, matte porcelain biscuit body. The iconic pale blue color (often referred to as "Portland Blue" or "Wedgwood Blue") is achieved by adding metal oxides directly into the clay body.

• Bas-Relief Application: The white figures were cast separately using delicate plaster molds (called sprigs) and hand-applied to the blue bowl before firing.

3. How to Date the Piece

To pinpoint the exact decade of manufacture, check the base for impressed stamps:

• 19th Century (1860–1891): Stamped WEDGWOOD along with a three-letter date code (e.g., OAT).

• Turn of the Century (1891–1908): Stamped WEDGWOOD and ENGLAND.

• Mid-to-Late 20th Century (1908+ onwards): Stamped WEDGWOOD, MADE IN ENGLAND, along with impressed two-digit year numbers (such as 55 for 1955 or 72 for 1972).

• 4. Care Instructions

  • Cleaning: Clean using warm water and a small amount of mild dish soap using a soft toothbrush to gently clear dust from around the raised white relief details.

  • Avoid Abrasives: Never scrub with harsh pads or submerge in harsh chemicals, as this can stain the matte, porous surface of the unglazed jasper clay body.