Stephen Folch Pair of Tureens and Undertrays – “Bamboo and Basket”

A pair of lidded ironstone tureens and undertray by Stephen Folch (& Sons) with printed design and inpainting, c. 1825.
 
Dimensions: 
Tureen approximately 8” x 5” x 5¼” (including lid and handles)
            Undertray approximately 8⅛” x 6¼”
 
Decoration:
The tureen bodies and lids, and undertrays are decorated with a polychrome basket of flowers and a rock and trees in Chinese style.
 
The border of the lids and undertrays, and the interior of the tureens are decorated with alternating floral sprays.
 
The base of the undertrays and the interior of the lids and tureens bear an elaborate printed armorial with Prince of Wales feathers and the words “Improved Ironstone China”
 
This pattern is virtually the same as Mason’s “Bamboo and Basket” pattern. Folch produced a number ironstone products that closely resembled Mason’s "Patented Ironstone China" wares. It has been suggested that he may have been subcontracted by Mason because some of his wares, like this one, are identical to Mason’s.
 
Geoffrey Godden discusses Stephen Folch and illustrates and the marks in “Godden's Guide to Ironstone, Stone and Granite Wares” at pp. 242-243.
 
References: 
The Northern Ceramic Society Journal, vol. 26, 2010, pp.108-123.
 
Condition: Each tureen has a chip to the foot rim and fritting on rims; otherwise in excellent condition consistent with age and usage.