Rarity aside, there is always something wonderful about Masons Ironstone miniatures.  Here the Masons potters have entirely enveloped this little teapot with their "Japan Fence" pattern. 

In the decoration process, the deep cobalt areas were fired first, becoming the anchors around which the decorators would complete the pattern. These cobalt areas, enhanced with gilt outline, form the leaves of flowers which sprout up from around the fence.  Exuberant orange-red blossoms are surrounded by slightly darker tendrils extending across much of the surface.  Toward the base of  the pot, a stylized fence motif separates the garden from a pool of cool aqua. 

The handle, knop, spout and foot ring are all enhanced with gilding.

Masons offered two variations on this miniature teapot shape: one with a flat bottom, seen here, and a second with a raised pedestal foot. Other miniature forms include jugs, vases and a variety of vessels mimicking pots and pans. 

We are curious as to how these pieces were viewed originally--as toys for children or toys for adults, destined for the vitrines and curio cabinets which were beginning to invade Victorian interiors.