Unidentified Shape, Two Figures II

Item Number: M14
Shape Type: Unidentified Shape
Pattern Name:Two Figures II
Date: c. 1790-1795
Dimensions:  L 6″, W 2.375″, H 2.75″
Maker: Unknown
Maker’s Mark: Unmarked
Description:
A very early pearlware example of a molded item printed  in blue with a line-engraved version of the  “Two Figures II” pattern. Molded in the shape of half of a water buffalo hoof, it has a dagger border.  This is a very early, line-engraved pattern.  Earlier porcelain versions of this same shape by James Pennington, c. 1765-70, are recorded in Maurice Hills’ book titled Liverpool Porcelain, 1756-1804, Gromer Press, 2011, page 136. This item was featured in Extraordinary British Transferware, 1780-1840, by R & R Halliday, p. 280, Schiffer Publishing Ltd, 2012.
Condition: Fair. There is an approximately 5″ hairline that runs from the back rim of the cup down and across the bottom. It is structurally sound and does not go through the entire piece.