Antique Wood & Sons Florence Flow Blue Covered Butter Dish Underplate Victorian For Sale

Antique Wood & Sons "Florence" Flow Blue 2-Piece Covered Butter Dish — Late Victorian Era (c. 1891-1899)

Historical Overview & Provenance:

Up for your consideration is a remarkable, rare survivor of late 19th-century English ceramic history. This stunning antique "Flow Blue" semi-porcelain 2-piece covered butter dish includes the original domed lid and matching scalloped base bowl.

Crafted by the prestigious Wood & Sons pottery firm in Burslem, Staffordshire, England, this ensemble features their highly coveted "Florence" pattern. The production marks from this era date the piece firmly to the late Victorian period, specifically between 1891 and 1899.

The breathtaking visual appeal comes from the classic "Flow Blue" technique, where volatile chemicals were introduced into the kiln during firing. This caused the deep cobalt glaze to deliberately soften and bleed into the white porcelain canvas, creating a romantic, misty aesthetic. The intricate lace-like scroll borders, dense floral transferware panels, and delicate hand-painted gold gilt accents on the handle and rims showcase the peak of Victorian dinnerware craftsmanship.

Condition Report:

This authentic set is over 125 years old and presents beautifully for display, carrying natural signs of its storied history:

• Crazing: There is visible, fine crazing beneath the glaze across both pieces. This is highly typical, expected, and character-defining for antique semi-porcelain from this era.

• Small Chip on Base: There is a small, minor flea-bite chip located on the bottom rim/edge of the base plate (carefully pointed out with a pen in the photo gallery). It is completely hidden from view when the piece is sitting flat on a table or shelf.

• General Wear: Minor, honest wear to the gold gilt highlights and light age-related discoloration spots matching its authentic antique status. There are no structural cracks, hairline fractures, or repairs.

Please review all high-resolution photos carefully as they serve as the primary part of the item condition description.