19th century transfer decorated pottery darning egg in black with dog motif [1830]

FBu. 8,634,000

19th century transfer decorated pottery darning egg in black with dog motif [1830]

FBu. 8,634,000

A 19th-Century pottery darning egg. A rare antique darning egg, crafted in a style attributed to the Whitehaven Pottery in Cumbria, England. Decorated with a monochrome transfer print, one side inscribed with the traditional English potter’s motto, “No Handicraft can with Our art compare, we make our pots of What we Potters are,” often found inscribed on Staffordshire pottery. The other side depicts birds in foliage. These rare eggs were used to help mend socks and stockings, providing a firm surface to stretch fabric over. A decorative piece, grounded in craftmanship.