Preliminary identification
Photo reference
3 uploaded photos
Overview
A classic octagonal ironstone pitcher in the vibrant 'Regency' pattern (C4475), featuring multi-colored floral transfers and hand-enameled highlights. This piece showcases the iconic 'Hydra' serpent handle and the durable, heavy-bodied ceramic that made Mason's a household name globally.
Story
In 1937, this specific design was registered to bring Georgian-era elegance back into British homes just before WWII. The pattern's exotic birds and lush peonies were a nostalgic nod to the 18th-century 'Chinoiserie' craze that first made Mason's famous. It was the 'working man's porcelain'—tough enough for daily use but beautiful enough for Sunday tea.
Maker / Origin
Founded by Miles Mason in 1813, the company revolutionized the industry with 'Patent Ironstone China,' a material so durable it was famously advertised by throwing plates across a room.
Condition & Value
The pitcher shows significant 'crazing' (fine spiderweb lines in the glaze) and some interior tea/water staining, which is typical for ironstone of this age. These signs of use are expected but do keep the value toward the mid-range rather than the top-tier collector level.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Regional auction
· Jun 2024Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
$1,280
Dealer archive
· Mar 2024Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
$1,450
Marketplace sale
· Jan 2024Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
$980
Estate platform
· Oct 2023Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
$1,150
Auction result
· Aug 2023Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.
$1,375