In a design inspired by Japanese porcelain, Christopher Dresser gives us cranes soaring and swooping cranes over a turbulent surf. Dresser's water effect graphics include stylized waves, foam, and even splashed water drops. The dramatic border is anchored by a single flying crane in the center.

Christopher Dresser, one of the most important designers in Victorian England occupies for manufactured goods the sort of position William Morris occupies for arts and crafts.

Minton adapted Dresser's design, originally conceived for a horizontal tile frieze, to create both a border for plates and a band design for holloware. Adaptability is one mark of the genius of Dresser's pioneering manufacturing designs.