By the early 1800s, pieces of spatterware made in the Staffordshire district of England were being imported to the United States and some pieces were manufactured here as it garnered popularity with American consumers. Today collectors will pay good sums to own these old pieces, but usually nowhere near the hammer price realized for this pitcher and bowl set.
This particular spatterware pitcher and wash bowl was imported from England for the American market in the first quarter of the 19th century. It is only one of six sets known in existence, according to Morphy Auctions who sold the piece in June, 2012. The use of five colors in the design sets it apart from other similar spatterware sets available in the secondary antiques marketplace.
In spite of some glaze loss to the base of the pitcher and a rim chip on the base of the 12 ¼" diameter wash bowl, this is an attractive set for the advanced collector. The lucky bidder who now owns these pieces paid $19,200 (plus buyer's premium) to acquire them. This selling price handily exceeded the pre-auction estimate of $12,000-16,000.
