Rare 28-Piece Shelley Tea Service – Swansea Lace Pink – Gainsborough Shape Cup For Sale

Now Reduced to $1,640

28 Piece Shelley Tea Service – Swansea Lace 11301/40 Pink – Gainsborough Shape Cup – June 1923 – Rare Large Set

Description:
An exceptional and rarely encountered complete Shelley China tea service in the refinedSwansea Lacepattern (No. 11301/40), accented with the original pink banding and produced in the elegant Gainsborough cup shape. This pattern is documented as entered in the Shelley pattern books in June 1923, placing this set at a precise and desirable point in early Shelley production.

Large, matching Shelley services of this scale and condition seldom come to market, particularly in the Swansea Lace design combined with Gainsborough cups.

Set includes:

• Teapot

• Teapot with side handle

• Creamer

• Sugar bowl with lid

• 7 Gainsborough shape cups

• 8 saucers

• 8 shallow dessert bowls

• Serving plate with handles

• Octagonal Serving bowl

Condition:
A remarkably well-preserved antique set. The china is vibrant with no cracks, crazing, or restoration observed. The pink banding and delicate lace motif remain crisp, and show minimal wear.
The only exception is a small, unobtrusive chip to the outer rim of the serving bowl, noted for accuracy and shown in photographs.

Collector Notes:

• Maker: Shelley China, England

• Pattern: Swansea Lace

• Pattern Number: 11301/40 (Pink colorway)

• Date: Entered June 1923

• Form: Gainsborough cup shape

Shelley’s reputation for fine bone china, combined with the documented pattern date and the elegance of the Swansea Lace design, makes this a highly desirable set. The inclusion of both tea and serving pieces elevates it beyond typical partial services.

Why this set stands out:

• Large, cohesive service with matching pieces

• Early documented pattern date (1923)

• Elegant and sought-after Gainsborough form

• Very good preservation with minimal condition issues

• Increasing scarcity of complete Shelley services in today’s market

A distinguished addition to any serious collection of English bone china, or a centerpiece display. It would also make a meaningful, high-quality gift for occasions such as Mother’s Day or other special family celebrations.

Shipping & Handling:
Local pickup available by arrangement or professionally packed with extreme care and fully insured.

Please review all images carefully, as they form part of the description. Additional photographs or specific piece details are available upon request.