Succeeding Spode in 1833, Copeland and Garrett continued to offer the classic "Cabbage" pattern shown on this London shape cup and saucer.  While the inspiration had originated in the export wares found among the British aristocracy, by the time Copeland and Garrett took over possession of Spode, the quiet sophistication of "Cabbage" and other classic patterns had become Spode trademarks. 

The pattern takes advantage of the ability of Spode's stoneware bodies to emulate the slightly gray-blue tint of the body often found among Chinese goods.  The decoration follows an oriental formula of both subject and asymetrical arrangement. 

The light blue transfer pattern consists of a prominent, heavily textured leaf -- nicknamed "Cabbage" among the Staffordshire workmen, -- highlighted in deep red enamel and gilt.  A cluster of smaller painted blossoms,in varying shades of rust and pink with green leaves surrounds this leaf.  Both cup and saucer are finished with a tight band of blue and rust from which hang multiple sprigs of blossoming gnarled vine. In comparison with the plates and saucer, it is interesting to see how the Spode designers adapted the pattern for the cup.  The prominent "Cabbage" leaf almost covers a  portion of the cup while the hanging vines extend the decoration into the interior.   Gilt provides the finishing details throughout.

In his 1970 work, Spode, A History Of The Family, Factory And Wares From 1733 To 1833 (p.191,194), Leonard Whiter includes a discussion of Spode's stone china. He notes that the body was introduced between 1813 and 1814.  The impressed "Spodes New Stone" mark refers to improvements to the body made in 1822. This mark continues after the transfer of  the pottery to the Copeland and Garrett partnership in 1833.  Whiter postulates that pieces  found with both the impressed mark and the Copeland and Garrett backstamp date from the time of the 1833 transfer until approximately 1835. 

While among Spode's earliest stone china offerings, "Cabbage," along with the third version of "Peacock" (No. 2118),  was among Spode's longest running patterns.  "Peacock" remained in production until 1963; "Cabbage" was still in production as late as 1970.  Whiter further reports that, unlike many patterns, "Cabbage" was made without design alterations at least through the transfer of ownership to Copeland and Garrett in 1833. ( in contrast, seventeen variations of "Peacock" were introduced in the same period.)

Additional "Cabbage" pattern pieces  available on the the Seekers website are shown in the final photo.

A second cup and saucer with a mended handle is available, inquire for details.