When Henry Ollivant started tile making in
Cliffe Vale in Stoke on Trent amongst his
earliest patterns was a pair of birds (seen
here,
here
and here)
which were very popular. It appears that
other tile makers noticed and sought to
produce similar which I believe is what we
have here. This pair of birds is rare and
although not quite as well decorated as
Ollivant's they are lively, colourful and
quite charming. Similar birds are seen from
time to time, or I should say birds wihin
similar borders, and it seems that Ollivant
later added a few more designs to make more
of a series. I say it seems for despite
collecting birds for a good while to date I
am unable to solve the mystery of who made
all the birds and how many were made. Versos unmarked, very clean, slightly
stained. Condition: Excellent Ref: 06426/7 Left Tile: A tiny, a very tiny and two minute
rim chips, perfect surface. Right Tile: One tiny, two minute chips and a
little roughness to the tip of the rim, perfect
surface. If fitted in to a fireplace all would be hidden
by the frame apart from one minute (near invisible)
rim chip.
Style: Nature study
Technique: Print & Tint
Maker: Unknown
Dimensions: 6" x 6"x 2
Date: circa 1895
Price: £180 (approx $241)
Ref: 06426/7
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