Davenport "Friburg" Dinner Plate, c. 1852

A beautiful example of 19th-century Staffordshire transferware, this dinner plate features Davenport’s “Friburg” pattern in soft blue transfer on an ivory ground. The central scene depicts an elaborate Gothic-style architectural estate set within a romantic landscape, surrounded by mature trees, distant architecture, and water. An intricate border of scrolling vines, florals, and foliate motifs frames the scene beautifully.

Founded by John Davenport in 1794, Davenport became one of the most important Staffordshire potteries of the 19th century. Based in Longport, Staffordshire, the firm was particularly well known for its transfer-printed earthenware and ironstone and developed a substantial export trade, with its wares widely distributed throughout Britain, Europe, and North America. The firm remained in the Davenport family for much of its history and continued producing ceramics into the late 19th century.

The “Friburg” pattern is characterized by its romantic architectural landscape and elaborate floral border and appears on a range of Davenport tableware, including dinner plates, smaller plates, bowls, and serving pieces. Surviving examples are generally associated with the mid-19th century, making this an especially lovely example of the period's fascination with romantic European landscape imagery.

Origin: Longport, Staffordshire, England
Maker: Davenport
Pattern: Friburg
Date: c. 1852–1856
Material: Ironstone
Decoration: Blue transferware
Dimensions: 10.5" diameter
Condition: Antique condition with age-related crazing, discoloration, and minor imperfections consistent with age and use. Please see photographs for details.