M&C° Japanese pattern dessert plate

M&C° "Japanese" pattern dessert plate,

Minton & Co. (Stoke-on-Trent, England).

Mid-19th century (c. 1840 - 1850).

Brown underglaze transfer-printed decoration (transferware).

The decoration is typical of the Aesthetic Movement, which drew inspiration from Japanese art ("Japonisme"). Unlike classical symmetrical decorations, this one features an exploded composition:

Floral motifs: Thorny branches with plum or cherry blossoms, dandelion leaves.

Fauna: Presence of a stylized dragonfly in the lower left.

Symbolic elements: A circular cartouche containing geometric patterns and ribbons, reminiscent of Japanese family crests (Mon).

The plate is in very good condition.

References: Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A): The museum holds significant Minton collections. The "Japanese" style is documented there as part of the design wave influenced by Japan's opening to Western trade (after 1853, although the motifs began circulating somewhat earlier).

Godden's Encyclopedia of British Pottery and Porcelain Marks: Geoffrey Godden's book precisely lists this ribbon mark for the period 1841-1850.

Transferware Collectors Club (TCC): A specialized database for printed patterns where Minton's "Japanese" pattern is listed.