Antique flow blue octagonal plate with a blue leaf pattern.

Origin: Staffordshire, England
Time Period: Circa 1880-1910

Flow blue pottery is a type of blue and white transfer-printed earthenware that was popular in the mid-to-late 19th century, primarily produced in England. The characteristic 'flowed' or blurred appearance of the blue design is achieved by firing the pottery in a kiln with a high concentration of water vapor, causing the cobalt pigment to bleed slightly into the glaze. This technique created a softer, more artistic look compared to crisper transferware patterns.

These plates were often produced in sets for everyday use or as decorative items. The patterns frequently featured Oriental-inspired motifs, landscapes, or floral designs, making them highly collectible today. The crazing visible on the glaze is a natural aging process for this type of ceramic, and it indicates age.