Brightly enameled transfer-printed floral sprigs and butterflies are scattered in a carefr...
Brightly enameled transfer-printed floral sprigs and butterflies are scattered in a carefree manner over the surface of this small globe-shaped teapot. Their presence, however, reflects more than the well known British enthusiasm for gardens. Scattering individual images--seemingly at random--against an empty white ground was one of the principal composition strategies for potters seeking to ride the wave of enthusiasm for Japanese design (see comment). While the overall effect is intended to make an "artistic" impression, the individual images are striking in their realistic rendering of plants and insects.
The influence of Japan extended to the handle and spout and certainly to the eccentric twig knop on the lid. Vessel shapes during this period may be directly traceable to Japanese models or may simply derive from the imagination of designers set free by the thought of far away cultures. Quickly brushed enamel touches give these elements a further suggestion of natural twigs.
Always adept with the perfect final touch, the Wedgwood painters finish the piece with bands of orange enamel around the edge of the lid and opening of the pot.