Plant Motif Tureen Appraisal

Portmeirion Botanic Garden Soup Tureen with Ladle

This is a large, ceramic soup tureen from the renowned 'Botanic Garden' collection by Portmeirion, designed by Susan Williams-Ellis. The piece features a creamy white glazed earthenware body with a classic bulbous form on a pedestal base. The exterior is decorated with highly detailed, colorful transfers of botanical subjects including a prominent Passiflora (Passion Flower) and various insects like butterflies and dragonflies in hues of purple, green, and pink. The domed lid matches the body’s motif and features a sculptural, arched handle and a notched cutout to accommodate the matching ceramic ladle. The ladle itself is decorated along the handle with a delicate floral vine. The construction shows high-quality craftsmanship characteristic of English pottery from the late 20th century. Based on the style and popularity of this pattern, it likely dates from the 1970s or later. The glaze appears bright and reflective with no visible crazing, chips, or staining in the image, suggesting the item is in excellent vintage condition. Portmeirion pieces of this era are prized for their durability and detailed botanical illustrations, often inspired by 19th-century seed catalogs.