We are thrilled to offer this small, excellent quality little children's plate from the 1820 period. English in origin, likely made in the Staffordshire region of England. The rarity with this little nurseryware plate is the subject. It is the perfect plate for the horse owner, equine lover, horse racing fan...due to its scarcity you will struggle to find another!!
The little plate with scalloped edges and raised moulded relief roses around the edge depicts an unusual central scene. To the centre we see a transfer printed in deep, Turkey red scene titled 'LEAPING'. We see a George Stubbs type horse being ridden by a gentleman wearing a top hat, riding crop in hand. The horse and rider are flying or leaping over a wooden fence.
The scene is a steeplechasing scene. Steeplechasing began in the 1750s as a very rough, physical and dangerous horse race. The first church steeple viewed in the distance would be the destination for a group of riders. Those riders had to get to the church steeple as quickly as they can by any means, often riding across unchartered wild countryside, through ditches, leaping over stone walls, fences and hedges. Whoever arrived their first would win the race. As you can imagine it was dangerous and terribly exhilarating. The modern day, tamed version would be a Point-to-Point race.
Size: 5 1/8-inch diameter (13 cm)
Condition: Very good with one very old nibble to the far edge at 9 o'clock.