A white relief band of waterlilies and their pad foliage rings the bulbous base of this na...

A white relief band of waterlilies and their pad foliage rings the bulbous base of this narrow necked ewer, which has been dipped in Alcock's inimitable signature lavender. The blossoms and leaves appear tossed by a breeze or choppy pond surface, creating a pleasing irregularity in the repeating pattern.

The strong, almost architectural fluting of the neck contrasts with the loose organic quality of the lily band. The effect is softened, however, by the white branch handle which sends sinuous tendrils horizontally across the lavender collar.

The waterlily and lotus were favorites of Victorian fanciers of exotic plants. In 1852 the...

The waterlily and lotus were favorites of Victorian fanciers of exotic plants. In 1852 the British built in Kew Gardens what was then the world's widest single span glass house specifically for the cultivation of these aquatic beauties. Copeland is responsible for the best known waterlily jug, a design popular enough to be copied by the United States Pottery in Bennington.  (Bennington example currently available on this website.) A bit later on, the plant would provide a favorite floral motif in aesthetic style transferware.