Antique Minton Cabinet Plates, Circa 1835-40

Two fine porcelain cabinet plates by Minton, each measuring 23 cm in diameter. Minton refers to this form as 'Oxford Relief.' The plates are attractively decorated with a chrome green ground, featuring molded and finely gilded rococo panels with hand-painted rural scenes. The center depicts a coat of arms similar to that of the MacDougall family. Plates from a similar dessert service are illustrated in GA Godden's book Minton Pottery & Porcelain of the First Period, 1793-1850, on plates 36 and 37. The back of each plate bears the stamp of London retailers, a practice where some prominent London retailers stamped their name rather than the maker's name on items made to their order. This plate bears the trademark of J. Allsup of 16 St. Paul's Church Yard, dating to approximately 1837-1852. St. Paul's Church Yard was the center of the retail pottery trade in London from at least the early eighteenth century. For factories without a showroom in London, the network of retailers in the capital was crucial. These retailers supplied ceramics to highly discerning customers for whom shopping became more than just a pastime. There were about 20 leading retailers in the early 19th century, and Allsup was named in 1885 as one of the "dealers in China and glass in London half a century ago," according to Pottery Gazette. Condition: One plate has two enamel cracks. Both plates have small, almost imperceptible losses to the green enamel and gilding. Otherwise, the plates are in excellent antique condition. Please study the attached photos carefully as they are an integral part of this description. The item will be shipped with full tracking and insurance.