ENGLISH DELFTWARE BLUE AND WHITE FLOWER BOWL CIRCA 1710-30

Probably Bristol or London, the fixed cover pierced with a circular central aperture surrounded by two rows of pierced holes.

Titus Geesey Collection, Wilmington, Delaware;
Pook and Pook Inc., Downingtown, Pennsylvania, January 11, 2008, lot 118.

There is some typical abrasions to the rim of the central aperture on the cover as well as some chipping to the edges of the bowl. The footrim has two very small chips. Otherwise in good condition.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Variously decorated bowls of this type, mostly attributed to London or Bristol, are illustrated in Michael Archer, Delftware, The Tin-glazed Earthenware of the British Isles, pp. 365-366, cat. nos. I. 4-6, where the author indicates that it is very likely that these bowls were intended for cut flowers, rather than bulbs. Other examples are illustrated in Frank Britton, English Delftware in the Bristol Collection, p. 103, cat nos. 7-21-24 as well as in John C. Austin, British Delft at Williamsburg, pp. 264-265, cat nos. 628-631.