Tonquin
Decorative Art / Ceramic Tableware (Set of tea cups and saucers) • Clarice Cliff (designer) for Royal Staffordshire Dinnerware by A.J. Wilkinson Ltd
Style & Movement
Mid-Century Traditional / Revivalist Transferware
Medium & Technique
Transferware on Ironstone or Earthenware; blue underglaze transfer print
Creation Period
Mid-20th Century (Circa 1950s-1970s)
Dimensions & Format
Circular format; Saucers approximately 5-6 inches in diameter, Cups approximately 3.5 inches in diameter.
Subject Description
Landscape scene in the 'Tonquin' pattern featuring a grand manor house, a bridge, water, and lush foliage, surrounded by a heavy floral border in the Chinoiserie tradition.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good; visible crazing and minor staining consistent with age and use.
Estimated Market Value
$60 - $120 USD (for the visible grouping)
Auction Estimate
$40 - $80 USD
Provenance History
Mass-produced in Staffordshire, England; likely acquired through retail or estate secondary markets. Makers marks on bottom: 'Tonquin Royal Staffordshire Dinnerware by Clarice Cliff Made in England'.
Art Historical Significance
Represents the later career of Clarice Cliff, who is famous for Art Deco 'Bizarre' ware. This pattern shows the shift toward traditional, commercially safe designs for the export market.
Notable Features
Features the 'Clarice Cliff' signature stamp which, despite being a mass-produced transfer pattern, increases collector interest compared to anonymous Staffordshire patterns.
Condition Issues
Significant fine-line crazing (cracking of the glaze), internal staining/discoloration on the white ground, and potential shelf wear on the foot rings.
Conservation Recommendations
Hand wash only; avoid microwave or dishwasher use. Store with felt dividers to prevent stacking scratches.