Davenport "Cyprus" Luncheon Plate, c. 1840

A striking mid-19th-century Staffordshire ironstone transferware luncheon plate in Davenport’s “Cyprus” pattern, decorated in a rich flowing mulberry transfer. The exotic central scene depicts an elaborate Oriental-style pavilion surrounded by tropical foliage, palms, water, and smaller architectural structures, while the highly ornamental border is filled with large florals, scrolling foliage, and intricate cartouches.

The “Cyprus” pattern is a documented Davenport pattern and is known in several forms, including dinnerware, serving pieces, and luncheon-sized plates. Contemporary examples are generally described as flow mulberry transferware, with production examples dating to approximately the 1840s–1850s.

Davenport was one of the important Staffordshire pottery manufacturers of the 19th century. Based at Longport, Staffordshire, the firm produced earthenware and ironstone wares from the late 18th century into the 19th century and was particularly prolific in transfer-printed tablewares. Davenport's printed marks frequently incorporated both the Davenport name and pattern names, as seen on this example.

The Cyprus pattern is particularly appealing for its Chinoiserie-inspired landscape, reflecting the 19th-century British fascination with imagined Eastern landscapes and architecture. The rich mulberry coloration and characteristic "flow" of the transfer give these pieces an especially atmospheric quality.

Origin: Longport, Staffordshire, England
Maker: Davenport
Pattern: Cyprus
Date: c. 1840–1850
Material: Ironstone
Decoration: Flow mulberry transferware
Dimensions: 9.5" diameter
Condition: Antique condition with age-related crazing, discoloration, and minor imperfections consistent with age and use. Please see photographs for details.