(Library Philadelphia) J. and W. Ridgeway. Cauldon Place 1820-30. $275.00

"Library Philadelphia"

Dark blue historical Staffordshire transferware with American scenes are the most collected and desirable of the English transferware made for the American market, and smaller plates, such as this lovely 8 1/4" plate depicting the Philadelphia library are more difficult to find than their larger counterparts. This example from the Beauties of America series features the series’ rose and leaf border. This is a fine piece of early 19th century historical Staffordshire and will fit beautifully into a collection of early ceramics or historical wares.

The source of view is William Birch and Son’s “Library and Surgeon’s Hall on Fifth Street, Philadelphia” from his famous series of Views of Philadelphia. This design shows a prosperous Philadelphia with two figures on the right in the foreground on a wide road and figures in the background as well, the latter standing on a substantial sidewalk that is backed by a wooden fence on the fight side. The Library building is two stories high with four columns rising from the steps in the front and extending to the pediment above the second floor. There is a balustrade on the roof and a statue of Franklin in the niche over the door. The American Philosophical Society is now in this place housed in a building possessing a reproduction of the famous Georgian façade.

Excellent condition. No chips, cracks or repairs.
8 ¼ inches, wide.