One of my favorite patterns shows two entwined fairies or cupids flying toward roses. It was made by William Adams III (1804-1829) in dark blue for the American Market.
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| Adams, Two Cupids Flying or Cupids and Roses 10 inch plate, ca. 1825 |
While visiting my friend, Dora, I noticed she owned more patterns from what now appeared to be plates from a series. I wondered if they were part of a dinner service, but so far only plates have been found; no platters or serving pieces.
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| Adams, Cupid and Venus Holding A Garland 8.75 inch plate, ca. 1825 |
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| Adams, Cupid and Venus with Lyre 7.75 inch plate, ca. 1825 |
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| Adams, Cupid Surprising a Woman or, perhaps, Psyche Surprising Cupid 7 inch plate, ca. 1825 |
A few years ago, Sara Avins-Gagnon wrote an excellent article for the
Transferware Collectors Club Bulletin titled
Falling In Love With The Cupid Series. She suggested that the inspiration for the patterns is the 1805 poem by Mary Tighe (1772-1810) titled
Psyche, or the Legend Of Love. It tells the story of the love of Cupid and Psyche (like most myths, there are many trials). Take a look at the
poem. Lovely reading for Valentine's Day! But not as lovely (to me) as the plates.
Judie,
ReplyDeleteIts truly one of my favorite of Series. I wish there were more pieces! Thanks for sharing it! I love you Blog! :)
Sara
Thank you Sara!
ReplyDeleteWhat a fabulous rich blue! I've never seen these in the UK.
ReplyDeleteDark blue was made for the American Market in the 1820s. For example, most of the scenes of historical America were printed in dark blue. Some of the factories that made dark blue for the U.S. were Enoch Wood, William Adams, John Hall, Stubbs, Riley and many more.
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