Liberty Blue Dinner Plate | Independence Hall

- Diameter: 25.3 cm

- Excellent - This plate is in overall excellent vintage condition.

Surface: The glaze remains remarkably bright and glossy with very minimal surface wear. There are no deep scratches or significant utensil marks, suggesting it has been well-cared for over the decades.

Transferware: The cobalt blue engraving is crisp and clear. There is no evidence of fading, blurring, or "bleeding" of the pattern, which can sometimes occur with lesser-quality transferware.

Structural Integrity: No chips, cracks, or hairline fractures. The scalloped rim is smooth and intact.

Reverse Side: The back of the plate is clean. The original "Liberty Blue" backstamp is fully legible and dark blue, with no signs of wear or washing-out.

Crazing: No visible crazing (the fine "spiderweb" cracking of the glaze often found in older ironstone), which is a testament to the high-firing process used by Enoch Wedgwood.

1. Design & Features
- The Liberty Blue pattern is defined by its high-contrast, deep cobalt blue transferware on a crisp white ironstone base.
- The central engraving of Independence Hall is remarkably detailed, capturing the architecture of the Philadelphia landmark surrounded by mature trees and figures in period dress.
- What truly sets this piece apart is the broad, scalloped rim featuring a dense, scrolling border of wild roses and foliage.
- This floral frame softens the architectural centre, giving the plate a balanced, traditional aesthetic that feels both stately and approachable.

2. The Commission & The Missing Enoch Wedgwood Backstamp
- A common question for collectors is why the famous Enoch Wedgwood (Tunstall) Ltd. "Unicorn" mark is absent from this series. This is due to the plate’s unique origin as a private commission.
- In 1975, the Benjamin Franklin Federal Savings and Loan Association in the US commissioned the factory to produce a commemorative set for the 1976 American Bicentennial.
- To keep the focus on the historical theme, the bank requested a bespoke backstamp featuring the American Eagle and Shield.
- While it was crafted by one of Staffordshire’s most respected factories, the "Liberty Blue" branding was prioritised over the manufacturer's logo, making this specific backstamp a hallmark of the original 1970s collection.

3. Craftsmanship
- Each plate was produced using the traditional transferware technique.
- The design was first hand-etched onto copper plates, which were then used to print the pattern onto a thin tissue.
- This tissue was applied to the "green" (unfired) ironstone before being glazed and fired at high temperatures.
- Because it is Ironstone, the plate is significantly more durable than standard earthenware.
- It was engineered to be "iron-hard," resistant to chipping, and capable of withstanding the rigours of a busy household.

4. Uses & Versatility
- At 25.3 cm, this is a full-sized dinner plate, making it the perfect foundation for a tiered table setting.
- Mix & Match: The classic blue-and-white palette allows it to sit seamlessly alongside other patterns like Spode’s Blue Room or Churchill’s Willow.
- Wall Gallery: Given the architectural detail of the Independence Hall scene, these plates are also highly sought after for wall displays or as a focal point in a dresser arrangement.
- Modern Chic: Its clean, professional look fits perfectly into a contemporary kitchen that appreciates a nod to heritage.

5. Care Instructions
Unlike many antique transferware pieces that require delicate hand-washing, Liberty Blue was designed for the modern home.
- Dishwasher Safe: The high-fired glaze protects the transfer, making it safe for regular dishwasher use.
- Detergent Safe: It is resilient against modern cleaning agents.
- Note: To maintain the brilliance of the cobalt blue over several more decades, we recommend avoiding overly abrasive scouring pads.