By the mid 1800's, Staffordshire potters found themselves searching for new design formula...

By the mid 1800's, Staffordshire potters found themselves searching for new design formulas to catch the public's attention.  In that spirit, Francis Morley looks to ornamental tradition for this "Aurora" pattern dessert plate.    

"Aurora" focuses on one elaborate central scroll entwined with vines and flowers.  The complementary border uses three additional scrolls -- based on this central design -- separated by Persian derived devices.  While the pattern is found in a number of colorways, this variation uses purple transfer for the basic design, enhanced with  pale blue, lime green, and yellow enamels.   

Morley's "Aurora" reflects an 1850's trend away from scenic patterns, turning instead to a...

Morley's "Aurora" reflects an 1850's trend away from scenic patterns, turning instead to abstract decorative motifs or garlands of flowers and foliage as the foundation of the design. Like "Aurora", these patterns appear on heavier earthenware blanks and employ polychrome enamels to catch the eye of the consumer. These traits reflect a search for novelty from an industry that had been producing quantities of durable tablewares for decades. If the pottery refused to wear out, the best hope for fresh sales would be a change in style.

Seekers currently offers examples of purple "Aurora" in the 9 1/4 inch luncheon plate size and 8 inch salad plate size as well as this dessert plate. (See final photos.)