Fig. 288.—Group.
Chelsea Derby.
Fig. 289.—Pair of Vases.
Chelsea Derby.
Fig. 290.—Plate.
With flowers by Billingsley.
The “Derby Porcelain Manufactory” was founded in 1751 by William Duesbury; the first productions were chimney ornaments, lambs, sheep, and services for the table, but it was probably not until he purchased the Chelsea works in 1769 that any great reputation was acquired, and few if any of the early specimens can be identified. Some beautiful examples of porcelain painted in the Chinese style were produced about this time, but as the rage for oriental ware seemed so prevalent, the proprietor, to insure the sale of his china, copied the Chinese marks as well as the style of decoration. Crown Derby was produced from 1780, and was continued by Bloor, the successor of Duesbury, as late as 1830. After the purchase of the Chelsea and Bow works, the Derby porcelain manufactory rose to great importance, the proprietors having of course retained the best workmen who had been engaged there. In fact, with all the models and moulds, the mixers, throwers, and painters of those two great establishments, the manufactory may be considered as the Chelsea and Bow works continued in another locality. Upon the death of William Duesbury, in 1785, his son William continued the business, and a third William Duesbury succeeded in the beginning of the last century. About 1815, Robert Bloor took over the works, which were altogether closed in 1848. An offshoot, however, is still carried on.
Fig. 291.—Cup, Cover, and Saucer.
Crown Derby.
