Antique Spode "Willis" Plate - C.1833 - England

Earliest 19th century "Willis" pattern produced by the Spode factory sometime between 1833 and 1848. It is sometimes referred to as the "Indian Tree" pattern yet it was produced for a business man named Willis who was owner of the Thatch'd House hostelry who desired a hard-wearing plate for his business which is how this pattern has acquired its name. The design is taken straight from an 18th century Chinese Export plate. The first version of this plate (pattern 2147), first appeared in 1814. This iteration, 2148, is identical to the earlier version except for one butterfly hovering over cherry blossom flowers. Also, this plate was manufactured of the more robust Stone China formula propagated by Copeland & Garrett after their merger with Spode in 1833. An example of this pattern has been found in a more robust Stone China marked on the front of the plate 'Willis, Thatch'd House' and on its base with the Spode Stone China backstamp. This matches eleven old Spode copper engravings held at the Museum Trust. Obviously, Willis was the owner of the Thatch'd House hostelry who desired a hard-wearing plate for his business which is how this pattern has acquired its name. CONDITION: has surface wear; some crazing, otherwise in good condition consistent with age. ( please see pictures, they are part of description) 9.5” diameter ChineseChinoiserie Mid 19th Century United Kingdom Vintage, Antique or China Porcelain