"Then I Saw the Monkeys" from the Down at the Zoo series
Decorative ceramic collector plate • Designed by Brenda Burke, produced by Davenport Pottery, Stoke-on-Trent, England
Style & Movement
Contemporary collectible decorative art, realistic children's book illustration style
Medium & Technique
Underglaze transfer printing and hand-painting on fine bone china or porcelain, fired in a kiln
Creation Period
Late 20th century, circa 1980s-1990s
Dimensions & Format
Circular plate, approximately 8.5 inches (21.5 cm) in diameter
Subject Description
A young blonde girl wearing a blue sailor dress and white hat, holding a teddy bear, pointing excitedly at capuchin monkeys in a tree at the zoo. In the background, other zoo enclosures feature an elephant, a bear, and a camel. The rim features a quote inscription 'Then I Saw the Monkeys'.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Excellent, well-preserved with vibrant colors, glossy glaze intact, and no visible chips, cracks, or crazing
Estimated Market Value
20.00 USD - 50.00 USD
Auction Estimate
10.00 USD - 30.00 USD
Provenance History
Comes with its original Davenport Pottery branded packaging box from Stoke-on-Trent, England, indicating standard primary market collector acquisition
Art Historical Significance
Part of the popular collector plate boom of the late 20th century, reflecting the commercial success of limited-edition decorative ceramics marketed directly to collectors through specialized guilds and potteries like Davenport
Notable Features
Includes the original Davenport Pottery, Stoke-on-Trent backstamp and box, signature of artist Brenda Burke on the front face, and the inscribed quote along the bottom rim
Condition Issues
None apparent from visual inspection; minor shelf wear to the original cardboard box may be present
Conservation Recommendations
Keep out of direct sunlight to prevent potential fading of overglaze colors. Display on a plate stand or store in original packaging in a stable, low-humidity environment. Hand wash gently with mild soap if cleaning is necessary.