This jasper dip lidded sugar takes effective advantage of the engine turning technique--introduced to the potting industry by Josiah Wedgwood in the 1760's. Here a special lathe is used to cut through the thin blue jasper layer to create crisp white striped fluting on the domed lid and the tapered foot of the bowl. Applied leaf trim, studded with tiny applied balls, provide finishing touches to the lid.

The central band of the bowl provides the ground for a procession of figures from the "Domestic Employment" design of Lady Templeton. The principle employment seems to be child care with slender maidens out for a stroll with younger tykes and a tiny pet dog. One maiden uses a portable spindle while she walks. The costumes are contemporary, in contrast to the garb of Wedgwood's customary classical figures.

Lady Elizabeth Templeton was an amateur artist who supplied Wedgwood with designs in cut paper which were adapted for clay relief. Related pieces featuring Templeton reliefs with engine turned borders are illustrated Robin Reilly in plates 57 and 58 of Wedgwood; The New Illustrated Dictionary. We have relied on Reilly for the dating of the piece.

The lid of the bowl has undergone repair of museum quality. Upon request we can provide written description from the repairer with photo documentation.