Antique Wedgwood Lustre Bowl, Boston Shape, With Goldfish, Daisy Makeig-jones, C. 1915

Antique Wedgwood lustre bowl, Boston shape, pattern Z4826, with goldfish and geometric diaper design, c. 1915

This antique Boston-shaped bowl by Wedgwood features finely detailed gilded rims and an elegant exterior finished in a mother-of-pearl lustre. A refined geometric diaper pattern encircles the body, forming a delicate mesh-like surface. Under changing light, the glaze reveals a luminous play of iridescent colour—shifting beautifully between pink, green, violet, and pale gold—bringing subtle texture and depth to the design.

The interior is finished in a rich dark orange lustre with crimson mottling and fine gilded ornamentation along the inner rim. At the centre, two stylised goldfish are depicted in delicate gilt linework, swimming amidst swirling aquatic motifs.

The base is printed with the Wedgwood Portland Vase mark  and hand-numbered with pattern Z4826. This pattern forms part of the celebrated “Ordinary Lustre” series, designed by Susannah Margaretta “Daisy” Makeig-Jones. Known for her imaginative and technically advanced pottery, Daisy pioneered the use of underglaze mottling, overglaze graining, and iridescent finishes, complemented by fantastical designs outlined in gilt.

Historical Background
Daisy Makeig-Jones became a full designer at Wedgwood in 1914, with her own studio and creative control. The “Ordinary Lustre” range was her first major success, preceding the more elaborate Fairyland Lustre series. The first ten designs in this range were consecutively numbered Z4823–Z4832 and introduced in October 1914. This bowl is pattern Z4826, the fourth in the series. These early lustre designs featured bold colour contrasts, Eastern and fantastical motifs, and experimental glaze effects that defined Wedgwood’s innovation during the early 20th century.

Produced between 1914 and 1929 in relatively limited numbers, pieces from the Ordinary Lustre series are now highly collectible. Their increasing rarity and the lasting appeal of Makeig-Jones’ style have contributed to a steady rise in value, with many collectors viewing them as both artistic treasures and sound investments.

Measurements
Height: 5.3 cm / 2.09″
Diameter: 9.7 cm / 3.82″

Condition
Excellent antique condition. Miminal rubbing to the gilded rim and a few faint gold scuffs along the edge of the foot, visible under magnification. The lustre surfaces remain vibrant, reflective, and well preserved.

Shipping & Packaging

• Fully tracked and insured delivery
• We are pleased to offer free worldwide shipping on this lot
• Carefully packed using recycled materials where possible
• Customs paperwork provided where necessary for smooth international delivery

Please review all photographs carefully, as they form part of the description, and feel free to ask any questions.