Early Coalport Neo Classical Dessert Plate Greek Key Border c.1805-1810

An unusual Coalport lobed dessert plate with double Greek-key design around the edge set on a salmon ground and fine seaweed gilt decoration as the background to the main body of the plate. In the centre within rings of gold and salmon ground is a classical image of a woman in flowing gown with one hand on an altar and other resting on top of a harp while a putto dances at her feet. This design is created unusually by painting the maroon ground around the figures and is described in Coalport & Coalbrookdale Porcelains by Godden as being a method of decoration apparently unique to the factory. Similar plates depicting this style of decoration are shown in plate 98 of the same book.