T. J. & J. Mayer "Rhone Scenery" Luncheon Plate, c. 1843

A beautiful mid-19th-century Staffordshire transferware luncheon plate in T. J. & J. Mayer’s “Rhone Scenery” pattern, featuring a romantic continental landscape of an elaborate riverside estate, architectural towers, a bridge, water, and towering trees. The detailed black transfer gives the scene a particularly atmospheric quality, while the scrolling floral border adds an elegant contrast around the central landscape.

The Rhone Scenery series is one of the better-known scenic patterns produced by T. J. & J. Mayer during the firm's important period at the Dale Hall Pottery in Longport, Staffordshire. Examples of the series are documented from approximately 1843–1855, and the pattern was produced in a variety of forms and sizes.

T. J. & J. Mayer refers to Thomas, John, and Joseph Mayer, who operated the Dale Hall Pottery in Longport. The firm was a significant Staffordshire manufacturer during the mid-19th century and exhibited at the Great Exhibition of 1851, where the company received recognition for its wares. Their production included transferware, ironstone, and Parian ware, with scenic transferware forming an important part of their output.

The Rhone Scenery pattern is particularly appealing for collectors of early Staffordshire scenic wares because of the variety of architectural and landscape views used throughout the series. This smaller form is catalogued by Replacements as a 7½-inch salad plate, making the luncheon designation appropriate for this size.

Origin: Longport, Staffordshire, England
Maker: T. J. & J. Mayer
Pattern: Rhone Scenery
Date: c. 1843–1855
Material: Earthenware
Decoration: Black transferware
Dimensions: 8.75" diameter
Condition: Antique condition with age-related crazing, discoloration, and minor imperfections consistent with age and use. Please see photographs for details.