Rare, Wilson Pie Dish

Rare, Wilson Pie Dish

Code: H20791

SOLD

A superb, late 18th/ early 19th century caneware game pie dish made by Wilson. 

Caneware pottery was invented by Wedgwood, in the 18th century when there was a shortage of flour for making pastry. Pie dishes were made in this cane coloured body, simulating pastry, so you could make a game casserole and simply take it to the table in the dish. Other factories then followed the lead of Wedgwood.

This example is marked “WILSON”. This is the mark of the Church Works, Hanley, Stoke on Trent. The works went through various partnerships before being taken over by Robert Wilson from 1795 until 1801 and then David Wilson from 1801 to 1818. They both used the same impressed mark. This piece dates from c.1800 so it could have been produced by either.

It is a rare example, with the finial in the form of the Prince of Wales Feathers. Around the finial is the motto "HONI SOIT QUI MAL Y PENS”. This is a Middle French maxim meaning “shame on anyone who thinks ill of it”, obviously referring to the food in the dish.

The side of the dish is moulded with band of various fruits, maize and foliage. 

It is in excellent condition.

Dimensions: Length 23cm. Width 16cm. Height 13cm.

Price includes postage within the U.K. Shipping to the U.S.A. add £30. Most of Western Europe add £15.