In an unusual mix of opulence and severity, Wedgwood adorns a simple can form in solid light blue jasper with a single frieze device. That frieze, however, is dazzling in its rich detail, consisting of garlands--heavy with fruit and foliage--suspended between rams head terminals. The garland cradles oval medallions with minute classical reliefs within fine beaded borders.Finally ribbons flutter from the rams heads animated by some imaginary breeze. A simplified version of the garland frieze forms a border for the saucer. The only other design element of the can is a solid white handle, contrasting the blue of the cup body.

This example is clearly related to Wedgwood's "Trophies" pattern, but lacks the actual hanging trophy motifs and the secondary borders included in that pattern.

Dating this piece poses some challenges.

The cup form with its slightly tapered foot is unusual for Wedgwood jasperware. Michael Berthould illustrates examples of the shape in porcelain as early as 1800 (A Compendium of British Cups), but a comparable Wedgwood example only in earthenware from the 1880's.

Robin Reilly in Wedgwood, Vol. II illustrates examples that share elements of the garland frieze from early in the nineteenth century and also from the post-1860 period.

The fine potting and smooth jasper body suggest early production, but pieces of comparable quality can be dated to the latter third of the century.   

Feel free to speculate for yourself; we will simply depend on the mark for a solid date of pre-1891.