Minton Transferware Blue And White Tureen "bath Japan" Pattern

This large blue and white soup tureen was made by Minton and is decorated with the transferware printed pattern "Bath Japan". The pattern consists of scattered flowers with borders resembling woven Japanese mats containing cartouches showcasing flowers and grasses. There are raised, moulded ribbons and bows around the handles on the lid and the body, and these have been highlighted with printed decoration. The pattern was engraved by Minton's head engraver, Henry Bourne (active 1869-76) and was introduced in 1872. The mark on the base was replaced in 1873 so this piece can be dated fairly accurately to 1872/3. The overall width, including handles, is 370 mm (14.5 inches), the height 240 mm (9.5 inches) and it is 222 mm (8.75 inches) deep. It is very good condition, but it does have some crazing.