Royal Albert Handled Bonbon Dish | "Derby" Pattern

- Width: 14.5 cm (measured from handle to handle)
- Depth: 9.5 cm (at the widest point of the bowl)
- Height: 3.3 cm

- Excellent - This Royal Albert Derby dish is in excellent vintage condition, especially considering its age. The fine bone china remains bright and clear, free from any chips, cracks, or professional restorations.

Glaze & Colour: The glaze is smooth and glossy. The deep cobalt blue retains its original richness, and the hand-painted floral cartouches are vibrant without any noticeable fading or scratches.

Gilding: The gold filigree and scalloped rim show extraordinary preservation with only the slightest rubbing to the handles consistent with careful occasional use.

Surface: There is no evidence of crazing. The interior of the bowl is clean, suggesting it has been used primarily for display or very light service.

As is expected with heritage ceramics of this era, there may be tiny "kiln dust" specks or minor firing pinpoints under the glaze, which are original to the manufacturing process and common in mid-century English china.

1. Design & Features
- The design follows the traditional Imari palette, defined by the contrast of deep, underglaze cobalt blue against the bright white of the fine bone china.
- Each floral cartouche is hand-painted with autumnal tones of rust and apricot, framed by elaborate gold filigree.
- The scalloped rim and delicate pierced handles provide a balanced, symmetrical silhouette.

2. Craftsmanship
- Produced in England between the 1930s and 1950s, this piece showcases the high standard of Thomas C. Wild & Sons' production.
- The application of the "Derby" pattern required a multi-stage process: the rich blue application, the precise transfer of the gold scrollwork, and the skilled hand-painting of the floral motifs.
- The "Derby" backstamp on the underside confirms its place in the earlier lineage of Royal Albert’s heritage patterns.

3. Uses & Versatility
Whilst historically intended for serving bonbons or small confections during afternoon tea, this dish offers contemporary utility. Its proportions make it an ideal vessel for:
- Serving artisanal chocolates or petit fours.
- A refined dressing table tray for daily jewellery.
- An accent piece within a larger blue-and-white porcelain display.

4. Care Instructions
To preserve the integrity of the hand-painted details and the original gold gilding, this piece requires gentle handling:
- Hand wash only using mild liquid detergent and a soft sponge.
- Avoid abrasive cleaners or scouring pads which can mark the gold filigree.
- Do not use in a dishwasher or microwave, as the high metallic gold content is not compatible with modern appliances.
- Dry thoroughly with a soft cloth to maintain the lustre of the glaze.