This stunning set of Copeland Spode Dinner Plates has arrived from market just in time for holiday feasting. Featuring delicate hand-painted florals in varying combinations, each distinctive plate has been created with blooms of similar size and scale that blend seamlessly upon the table. Executed in a scalloped plate style accented by an articulated basketweave rim, this classic Spode silhouette is known as the "Chelsea Wicker" shape. 

First introduced in the 1921, this optimistic pattern of lively blooms upon a creamy background is called Wicker Lane. With the dimensional movement of flowers playfully escaping from a hand-gathered posy and a regal color palette befitting the fine legacy and craftsmanship for which Spode has been prized for more than 250 years, these plates promise to elevate any tablescape. At home for the most formal of occasions, yet brimming with cozy charm, the generously sized plates are equally impactful for supper à deux as dinner for eight. Also lovely on display, this striking set with its eternal appeal is sure to remain fresh and timeless through the generations.

Strictly one-of-a-kind and subject to prior sale. Hand washing recommended. In very good condition. Dinner Plates measure 10.25" in diameter.

Learn More About Spode

While Josiah Wedgwood may be better known, he was born into a long established line of master potters, unlike Spode who overcame the most humble of beginnings. Josiah Spode, began to learn the pottery trade apprenticed at age 16 to Whieldon, the most accomplished of Staffordshire’s mid-18th century manufacturers. Whieldon’s endless curiosity and willingness to experiment had a profound impression on young Spode, and he went on to work in several partnerships until securing a position as head of Turner & Bank Works in the 1760s.

Forming Spode in 1767, Josiah Spode set in motion a firm that would make great contributions to the burgeoning industry including two of the most important breakthroughs in English ceramics: first, a formula for bone china that is still used today as well as the perfection of an "underglaze" printing process that is still practiced. It allowed the application of intricate patterns  pieces without worries of chipping, scratching and fading.

The Spode company went on to vie with Minton in making some of the most spectacular ceramics wares of the Victorian age. The range produced during this period was enormous. Statues, busts, tiles, special orders for Royalty and Regiments, tableware of all types, ornamental vases, plaques, hotelware and souvenirs were all made. Much of the production was exported to Europe, the Empire and in particular to the United States. Between 1833 and 1900, around 35,000 new patterns were introduced – an average of ten new patterns every week with many continuing into the 20th Century.

Little has changed in the past 250 years - the Spode factory, still located in Stoke-on-Trent, remains in operation with production methods that have been modified only slightly over the centuries. Contemporary transferware patterns continue to be created with hand-crafted copper plates and hand-rubbed transfer sheets, and earthenware is still made with fine ingredients that have been used since 1820.