Code: 11417
Aesthetic Movement Plate
MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM ~ COBWEB
England 1882
Wedgwood Potteries ~ Staffordshire, England 1882
This spectacular Aesthetic Movement Victorian transferware plate measures 9 1/8 inches. Transfer printed in a rich chocolate brown or sepia, it is titled COBWEB in the lower left hand corner. It depicts the fairy Cobweb helping a spider weave its web.
The plate was part of a series, each with a scene depicting scenes from William Shakespeare’s comedy about love, A Midsummer Night's Dream. Made by Josiah Wedgwood in 1882, the designs are variously attributed to Thomas Allen, who went on to become Art Director at Wedgwood’s or to Helen J A Miles who also produced some wonderful designs for Wedgwood and others.
In the play, Puck and the Fairies Cobweb, Peaseblossom, Moth and Mustardseed decide to take matters into their own hands to help the wrong people fall in love. The play is one of Shakespeare's most popular works for the stage and is widely performed across the world. Shakespeare wrote "Tis almost fairy time." When it's fairy time, everything goes wrong. All thanks to Puck and the mischievous fairies who are always playing tricks.
The plate it is in great condition with its wonderful original glaze.
