In this monochromatic blue study, a little woodland sprite peers out from her perch on a branch of prunus -- a figure from the British fairy tradition in a Japanesque setting. In contrast to the smooth cobalt background, the branch is executed in rough surface brush strokes. The impasto effect adds depth and a strengthened sense of the artist's hand. Adding to the variety of touch, the simple floral wreath is rendered with a delicate thinness that suggests a watercolor wash. A crisp herringbone band and buttery brown enamel edge finish the subtle composition.

The South Kensington Studio was an important, if short lived and ill fated, effort by Minton in response to a growing interest in handcrafts in the 1870's. While we have not seen a list of artist marks, Mathew Elden may be the artist identified by this monogram.