Jacob Furnival & Co. "Coral" Covered Tureen

A wonderful early Staffordshire ironstone covered serving dish in the “Coral” pattern by Jacob Furnival & Co., dating to circa 1845–1870. The substantial octagonal form sits on a raised pedestal foot and is finished with a domed, finial-topped lid.

The pattern is particularly charming: a dense black coral-like border encircles the body and lid, while the center features a colorful arrangement of seashells and marine forms in shades of purple, green, turquoise, yellow, and pink. The combination of the graphic black border and hand-painted color makes this a particularly unusual example of early polychrome Staffordshire transferware. The pattern is documented by the Transferware Collectors Club as “Coral” by Jacob Furnival & Co.

Covered serving pieces like this are wonderful displayed as much as used. Leave the lid on and let the silhouette and pattern do the work, or use it as a centerpiece for a dining table, sideboard, or kitchen shelf. It would also be lovely filled with fruit or seasonal flowers.

Origin: Cobridge, Staffordshire, England
Maker: Jacob Furnival & Co.
Pattern: Coral
Date: C. 1845–1870
Material: Ironstone
Dimensions: [add measurements]
Condition: Good antique condition with age-related wear, interior crazing, and minor imperfections consistent with age (pictured).