Typical of mid nineteenth century English  ironstone patterns, Livesley, Powell and Company present their "Paradise" pattern on a gothic shape molded ironstone blank. The pattern is executed in a fine lined purple transfer with enamel highlights in bright green, yellow and cranberry.  The sparing use of enamel highlighting creates an effect of foliage-like scrollwork studded with jewel-like polychrome floral clusters in both the center study and complementary border. An exotically plumed bird which seems to have just perched at the top of the central design finishes the arrangement, while a fine border of printed beading at the edge of the plate frames the composition.    

From around the time of the Crystal Palace (1851) through the late 1860's, one sees a crop of patterns based on geometric designs and still life arrangements rather than scenes--executed with a liberal use of polychrome enamel highlighting on heavier earthenware blanks.   In addition to "Paradise," Livesley, Powell and Co. offered a range of white ironstone jugs decorated in brilliant polychrome botanical studies set off by copper luster (see final image).  In addition to Livesley, Powell's offerings, we think of Jacob Furnival's "Coral," "Lily," "Cotton Plant," and "Phantasia," as well as Morley's "Aurora," "Zamara," and others.  

Seekers Antiques currently offers examples of both "Cotton Plant" and "Aurora," in addition to the Livesley Powell "Paradise" and botanical jug shown here.