We might be surprised to find a detailed botanical study of a land plant gracing a ceramic...
We might be surprised to find a detailed botanical study of a land plant gracing a ceramic shape based on the shell of some bi-valve mollusk. In fact, the piece recalls the passions of both Josiah Wedgwood and his eldest son John. The bowl is part of the "Nautilus" series, wares based on a variety of shell shapes -- reflecting Josiah Wedgwood's interest in conchology, the study of shells. The shapes appear over a long period of production with a number of decorative treatments, most frequently in shaded "shell pink" enamels.
The blue pearlware transfer "Botanical Flowers" decoration is one of a small group of designs based on plant studies -- reflective of John's interest in botany, the son who otherwise contributed more to the Royal Horticultural Society than to the family enterprise.
Both themes link the Wedgwood's to the strong interests in natural sciences among intellectuals of the day.