Argyle, Fitzhugh

Item Number: M09
Shape Type: Argyle
Pattern Name: Fitzhugh
Date: c. 1790-1800
Dimensions:  H 8″
Maker:  Cambrian Pottery
Maker’s Mark: Unmarked
Description: A rare earthenware argyle printed in blue with the Fitzhugh pattern and flower groups including one with a beechnut. The cover has a border of trellis, dagger and drops and floral groups. The argyle was designed to keep gravy in the body of the vessel warm thereby preventing fat from solidifying. There is a covered inner container to hold hot water that would help to keep the gravy warm. (See additional image.) It is so named for its inventor, the Duke of Argyll. Unmarked but attributed to Cambrian Pottery. This item was featured in Extraordinary British Transferware, 1780-1840, by R & R Halliday, p. 63, Schiffer Publishing Ltd, 201. It is also documented in Chinoiserie: Printed British Ceramics in the Chinese Style, 1750-1900, by R. Halliday and L. Zeller, Gomer Press, 2018.
Condition: Very Good. The finial of the lid and inner cover of this example have been professionally restored.