Myott Pottery Appraisal

Myott, Son & Co. 'Imperial Semi Porcelain' Ceramic Bowl/Dish (Backmark)

This item is the verso (bottom) of a ceramic dish or bowl, likely a serving piece, identified by its base mark. The piece is crafted from 'Imperial Semi Porcelain,' a type of earthenware with a denser, more vitreous body than typical earthenware, often used to mimic the appearance of true porcelain. The primary color visible is an off-white or cream, characteristic of underglaze transferware or ironstone. The surface exhibits extensive fine crackling throughout the glaze, a condition known as crazing, which is very common in older ceramic pieces and indicates age but not necessarily damage unless discolored. The backmark is centrally located and is a green printed stamp, featuring a crown above the text 'IMPERIAL SEMI PORCELAIN', followed by 'MYOTT, SON & CO' and 'ENGLAND'. This indicates the manufacturer as Myott, Son & Co., a Staffordshire pottery company, and confirms its English origin. The presence of 'Semi Porcelain' in the mark suggests a production period roughly between the late 19th century and mid-20th century, as this term was popular then. The crown typically signifies a higher quality or specific line within their production. Observable condition issues include generalized crazing across the entire visible surface. There are also several small, dark pinprick marks, possibly manufacturing flaws, air bubbles that burst during firing, or minor impact marks. The edge of the footrim, where the piece rests, shows some discoloration and minor brown staining, which is consistent with age and use, possibly from residue or absorption due to the crazing. A handwritten number '1246' is present in black ink on the left side of the backmark, which could be a pattern number, inventory number, or a decorator's mark. The craftsmanship appears to be typical of mass-produced utilitarian or decorative ceramic ware of the period, with a focus on durability as suggested by 'semi porcelain', and the quality is indicated by the well-defined printed mark.