THE “FOUNDLING” VASE.
In the Collection of the Earl of Dudley.
The two most important specimens of Chelsea china, both from their size and quality, are undoubtedly the “Chesterfield” vase, and the “Foundling” vase. They are two feet high, with bold rococo scroll handles, surmounted by dome-shaped covers; they are painted with pastoral subjects on white medallions. The reverse sides are painted with exotic birds of rich plumage, and the body or ground of the vase is of a rich gros bleu colour. The former was bought for £2,000 by the Earl of Dudley, and the latter, which was a gift to the Foundling Hospital, was sold by the Governors to the same nobleman, and they are now both at Dudley House. We give an illustration of the celebrated “Foundling” vase.
The raised flowers arranged in vases and ornamental figures were a feature of Chelsea ware; butterflies, bees, and other insects were introduced among the leaves, and the modelling was always well done. We reproduce a characteristic piece of Chelsea with delicate work, and exhibiting many of the individualities of Chelsea design ([p. 27]).
Derby-Chelsea Marks.
Mark Copied from Chinese ——.
As the earliest specimens of Chelsea were unmarked they can only be judged by the body, the general style of workmanship, and the glaze. The ordinary Chelsea marks we have already given, but we now give the marks which were used by Mr. Duesbury for a time when he was proprietor both of the Derby works and those of Chelsea. This ware is known as “Derby-Chelsea” ware, and is very much sought after. There are some finely enamelled plates in the Victoria and Albert Museum with the mark we give. They are magnificent specimens of the Derby-Chelsea and are scarcely distinguishable from their Oriental prototypes except in the softness of the paste.
It is interesting to remember that Dr. Johnson thought he could discover a means of further perfecting the Chelsea china. He applied to the proprietors, who allowed him to fire his compositions in their ovens at Chelsea. The worthy lexicographer attended there about twice a week and stayed all day, accompanied by his housekeeper, who brought a basket of provisions with her. Nothing, however, came of the experiments.