18th C. Pearlware Blue and White Decorative Pattern Plate

Underglaze blue pearlware plate. C. 1775 – 1800.
 
Dimensions: Approximately 9” diameter.
 
Decorated in underglaze blue hand painted designs.
 
Scalloped rim with blue impressed feather edge border.
 
Diaper pattern cavetto.
 
Swags of husks or vines with floral sprays form a central star-shaped pattern.
 
 
Condition: Professionally restored minor rim chip, otherwise in excellent condition consistent with age and usage.
 
There seems to be some confusion over the term “pearlware” as distinguished from creamware. As I understand it, based on an article by Miller and Hunter: “How Creamware Got the Blues: The origins of China Glaze and Pearlware” Ceramics in America” (2001), pearlware was fired with a blue tinted glaze intended to give the object the tone of Chinese porcelain. The glaze was referred to as China Glaze. The is opposed to creamware with its cream-colored glaze.
 
This plate exhibits the qualities of China Glaze to further enhance its underglaze blue design.