Royal Doulton Vitreous China Rectangular Dish

This is a vintage rectangular ceramic serving dish or tray, viewed from the underside. The item is crafted from vitreous china, characterized by a smooth, high-gloss white glaze that covers the entire surface. Its form is rectangular with heavily rounded corners and a slightly raised perimeter, suggesting a shallow depth. The most significant feature is the manufacturer's backstamp located off-center: a circular mark topped with a crown and a lion, displaying the 'Royal Doulton' name and 'Made in England' text. This specific style of mark was commonly used from the early to mid-20th century. Adjacent to the main stamp is a smaller, separate mark, possibly a factory code or artist's identifier. Regarding condition, the piece shows visible signs of age and wear. There is noticeable surface discoloration, particularly along the rim and outer edges, showing brownish stains and ingrained dust that may indicate crazing in the glaze or 'kiln dirt.' Several dark spots and scuffs are visible across the bottom surface, consistent with moderate household use. No major cracks or chips are immediately apparent from this angle, though the patina suggests it has been handled frequently over many decades. The craftsmanship is typical of high-quality English pottery from the period, utilizing a durable 'vitreous' body designed for professional or heavy domestic use.