M. & Co.
In 1868 the globe, with the word “Minton” across it, was first used, and all the firm’s works subsequent to that date are so stamped. In 1872 the design was registered, and frequently a rhomboidal stamp occurs either without or in addition to the globe mark, which has the letter R in the centre, denoting that the particular pattern of china is “Registered” as a design. This rhomboidal mark occurs on chinas other than Minton’s, and is a feature of modern china.
“Minton, Hollins & Co.” are a firm at Stoke largely engaged in manufacturing encaustic and majolica tiles. They are an offshoot of the main branch.
The illustration we give of the lion ewer is a fine example of Minton’s reproduction of the celebrated Henri II. faïence. This wonderful ware is of distinct character and ornamentation, differing from every other kind of pottery. It was made at Oiron, in France, from 1524 to 1550. There are less than one hundred known pieces. Five pieces are in the Victoria and Albert Museum. Two are in the Louvre. Some of the pieces are valued at over £3,000 each. Who shall say that there is no romance in old china and pottery when vases and ewers, tazzas and salt-cellars, have pedigrees as long as a race-horse’s, and whose whereabouts are as well known as that of a reigning prince?
MINTON. LION EWER.
Reproduction of “Henri II. Ware.”
The plaque of painted majolica is a good specimen of what Minton can do. It was made about 1865, as was the lion ewer alluded to on [p. 184], and the candelabrum is also of the same period. There is a fine fountain executed in Minton majolica; it is 36 feet high and 39 feet in diameter. At the summit there is a group, larger than life size, of St. George and the Dragon. It was one of the features of the International Exhibition of 1862; it now embellishes the scanty grass plot in front of the Bethnal Green Museum.