Francis Morley - Dinner service (12) - California - Earthenware - 180 years old

Museum-worthy, authentic English tableware – approx. 180 years old, F.M. & Co., “California,” 1845–1858

Francis Morley & Co. – “California” – Staffordshire, England – approx. 1845–1858

This offering includes six exceptionally beautiful antique dinner plates by Francis Morley & Co., made in Shelton/Hanley, Staffordshire, England (now Stoke-on-Trent). The Francis Morley & Co. manufactory operated from 1845 to 1858 and was known for high-quality decorated English earthenware and ironstone.

An extraordinary testament to English dining culture and nearly two centuries of history

These exceptional plates are around 180 years old and date from a long-vanished era of English history. They have endured almost two centuries, changes of generations, and a wide range of historical periods and social upheavals. The fact that they have survived to this day, allowing us to admire their splendid decoration, gives them a special historical appeal.

The elegant decoration delights with delicate pink and blue blossoms, fine leaves, curling tendrils, and elaborate ornamental details. The color palette and intricate design give each plate a distinctly refined and distinguished appearance.

Set includes

6 dinner plates & 6 soup plates

The plates are in good condition, considering their exceptionally great age. Signs of age are present and are part of the history and authenticity of these pieces, which are around 180 years old.

A historical rarity by Francis Morley & Co. – for collectors and lovers of English ceramics with a special appreciation for rare pieces steeped in history.

The service is made of high-quality English ironstone, an especially dense and durable ceramic material prized for its strength and long-lasting quality. The distinctive quality of the material and the elaborate craftsmanship make these plates, around 180 years old, impressive examples of the sophisticated English ceramic arts of the 19th century

Twelve plates, almost 180 years old – twelve witnesses to history that still tell the story of a bygone world