While all the first work at Bow was hand-painted, it appears that later, about 1756, printed or transfer work was used there; this, of course, secured cheaper sets.
A great variety and number of figures, such as shepherdesses, birds, animals, hunters, Chinese figures, etc., were made at Bow as well as at Chelsea, which, of course, have been much sought for, and have sold at high prices. Though these figures are not desirable as pieces of sculpture, many of them are interesting as showing the dresses of the day, especially such figures as Woodward the actor, and Mistress Kitty Clive, who were modeled at Bow.
Much confusion exists as to what is Bow and what is Chelsea, as the styles of work run much together. Many pieces of each factory bore no mark. Some of the best-known marks will be given at the end of this account; but it may be well to say that the incised triangle, which for a long time was supposed to be a sure indication of Bow, is now placed with Chelsea. Some pieces marked “New Canton” are known to be Bow.
It is curious to note that he who would be a good salesman in those “good old times,” must do what salesmen in these later and baser times are sometimes tempted to do. Let me explain.
Mr. Bowcocke was a manager or salesman at Bow, and he kept a note-book, in which are written down his doings with Mrs. McNally, a good customer of the wares:
| Oct. 16.— | Bought a china figure for Mrs. McNally | 4s. |
| Painting “ “ | 1s. 3d. | |
| Treating Mrs. McNally, wine | 1s. | |
| Went to see her home from the play | 1s. | |
| Paid | 2d. |
If that were the only transaction, think of it!
| Sales | 5s. 3d. |
| Expenses of same | 2s. 4d. |
Not lucrative to the Bow salesman!
The Bow works continued with varied success until about 1775 to 1776, when the moulds, implements, etc., were sold to Mr. Duesbury, who transferred and merged all into the greater works at Derby. (See Derby.)