Noteworthy Lots

Items of particular interest which have changed hands in recent sales:


Faience Blue 'Spano Lustra' Vase


This unusual piece appeared in Toovey's, Washington, West Sussex Auction on 16 April 2025. Listed in the catalogue as: "An early 20^th century Wileman & Co, Foley China, Spano-Lustra vase, the high-shouldered body with four loop handles to the lower half, incised with four large flowering stems above textured detail, covered in blue and purple lustre glaze against a dark ground, black printed and incised marks to base, pattern no.11011, height 24cm". The hammer fell at £50.00 plus fees - total £64.70.

(16/04/25)



Collection of Shelley China Catalogues and Sales Leaflets c.1920

This interesting lot came up for auction at Rydale Auctioneers (The Yorkshire Auction House) on 1 May 2025. The description read -" C1920s Shelley China booklets/catalogues incl. price lists, with letter from 'Shelleys' to customer dated 1928". The initial estimate of £50 - 80 was quickly surpassed and one lucky collector secured the lot for £190.00 plus fees.

(01/05/25)

Shelley Queen Anne Tulip Handled Duo

This cup and saucer duo recently appeared on Ebay on a 'Buy it Now' listing. Described as "Incredibly scarce Shelley England Floral Queen Anne cup and saucer set. Marked With Pattern Number 12121/31. Circa 1933. In the rarest Shelley “Floral Queen Anne”  “Violets” pattern with a “Tulip” flower handle The set is in yellow with floral panel sections and gold trim. No cracks or chips - Both the cup and saucer ring when tapped".

The duo sold for US$700.00 (£525.00).

(11/04/25)

Shelley 'Moorcroft Style' Bowl

This splendid Shelley Moorcroft style bowl came up for sale on Ebay last week. Described as 'featuring vivid fruit,(peaches I think), apparently Shelley copied the popular William Moorcroft designer style in late 1920s/early 1930s. Moorcroft threatened legal action after  and Shelley discontinued this style and ceased production of this range after 1 week. So these pieces are rare.The colours  are magnificent and the fruit almost 3 Dimensional. Really good condition,  no cracks or chips. However on close inspection, there is light scratching, almost imperceptible, on the inside centre of the bowl." Priced at 200 Euros (£165.00) this bowl was snapped up quickly by an observant collector.

(22/02/25)

Dainty Daisy Black Cup and Saucer




One of the scarcer colourways in the Dainty range, this duo came up for sale on Ebay recently. The sparce description stated simply "No cracks,chips or crazing. Each piece rings when tapped." The item was listed on a 'Buy it Now' basis for US$400.00 (£315.56) and sold for the listed price. It's been a long time since we have seen one of these duos in this pattern and colourway.

(18/02/25)

Wileman & Co. Foley Porcelain Tea Set, Japan pattern, Rd. 119505.


This set comprising 12 cups, saucers and side plates, a jug, bowl and two plates, came up for sale in Tennants Antiques and Interiors Sale on 7 February 2025. The condition report indicated one saucer broken and stapled with loss to the rim, one saucer and one cup cracked, and the remainder without damage. Some gilt wear was noted. The set, estimated at £150 - £200, sold for £320 plus fees.

(07/02/25)


Wileman Letter Rack


This rare letter rack was auctioned by South Cheshire Auctions, Stoke on Trent on<26 January 2025. Described in the catalogue as a 'Wileman & Co, Foley China 'Intarsio' Art Nouveau Two Tier Letter Rack with Hand Painted Design by Frederick Rhead. 18cm x 11cm x 6cm'. Bidding proceeded quickly and the hammer fell at £1400.00 plus fees.

(26/01/25)


Shelley Dainty Gold Cup & Saucer


This Shelley Dainty cup and saucer in a most unusual gold colourway was listed on Ebay recently. The sparce description by the seller read..' No cracks chips or crazing.Each piece rings when tapped'. The duo was listed on a 'Buy it Now' basis and the item sold for the asking price of US$1000.00 (£801.00). Is this a record for such a Dainty duo?

(18/01/25)

Wileman Foley Jardiniere and Stand

This jardiniere and stand was listed in Gorridge's 'Weekly House and Garden' sale on 16 December 2024. The catalogue description included...."A large Foley Intarsio jardiniere on stand, designed by Frederick Rhead, decorated with rabbits. High quality repairs make the degree of restoration difficult to assess. Jardiniere shaped neck rim and foot rim professionally restored. Pedestal section of neck rim and foot rim restored. Stand height is 34.2cm. Bowl height is 26cm. Bowl diameter is 31.3cm. Pedestal diameter 27.3cm." This scarce piece is listed in 'A Collectors' Guide to Wileman and Shelley Intarsio' by Les Foley, without illustration and this is the first time actually seen. Bidding opened at £600.00 and the hammer finally fell at £950.00 plus fees.

(16/12/24)

Shelley China Regent Green Duos


Listed on Ebay earlier this month were these magnificent Regent duos. Described simply as in "Good condition for age, no chips, cracks or restoration, light signs of use"; the pair were listed as a 'Buy it Now' item at a price of £1000 or Best Offer. They were purchased at the former price with no addition for postage.

(08/12/24)

Micklewright Fish Plate

This fine cabinet plate decorated by F Micklewright appeared on Ebay recently. The item description read: "A beautiful antique Foley China England blue fish plate w/ lobsters, shells, crabs. Signed/ stamped 'The Foley China England'.Titled: 'Blue Fish' hand painted & signed, "F. Micklewright'. Measures 8 1/2" across, scalloped edge, decorative dark blue & gold border w/ ocean life. Condition: Excellent. No chips. No cracks. No dings. No scratches." Originally listed at a 'Buy iy Now' price of US$46.80, the seller accepted a best offer of US$39.00 (£30.88) plus postage (£41.45).

(14/11/24)


Watch the Birdie!

Two separate bird models by Shelley were listed in the Potteries Auction of '20C. Rare Ceramics, Collectables, Jewellery & Furniture' sale at Silverdale, Newcastle-under-Lyme, on 8 November 2024. Each carried an estimate of £80-160. The toucan, rarely seen, realised a price of £100.00 (+ Fees 25%) whilst the eagle sold for £110.00 (+ Fees 25%). Both items in good condition.

(08/11/24)


Mabel Lucie Attwell Figurine - 'Ise Goin' Ta-ta'


One of the scarcer Mabel Lucie Attwell figurines appeared in Cheffins, Cambridge, 'Art and Design' sale on 24 October 2024. Described in the catalogue as 'A Shelley Mabel Lucie Attwell figure entitled 'Ise' Goin' Ta-Ta' polychrome decorated and signed to the base, printed marks to underside 16cm high'. Originally estimated at £150.00 - 250.00, bidding on the day quickly exceeded this, to result in a hammer price of £340.00 plus fees.

(24/10/24)

Shelley Queen Anne Panelled Rose Sprays Coffee Pot

Another extremely attractive Queen Anne shaped coffee pot by Shelley, England, in a rarely encountered panelled rose sprays pattern within elaborate gold borders on pale blue ground dating from the late 1920's, was listed on Ebay on 4 October 2024. The description read '..... It stands seven and a half inches tall with the lid in place, carrying the scripted within shield 'Shelley, England' factory backstamp as applied during the period 1925 to 1940, plus gold painted pattern number 11539/10 as entered into the pattern books in the year 1927 and also Registered No.723404 as applicable to the Queen Anne shape. This lovely serving piece is in excellent condition, no chips, cracks or hairlines nor any scratching, rubbing, crazing, fading, discolouration, etc., and no restoration.' Twelve bidders placed twenty four bids with the winning bid reaching £536.25.

(14/10/24)

15 Piece Shelley Coffee Set - Green Mocha Cups pn.13695/73

This set created a lot of interest when it was listed on Ebay recently. The description read '... This stunning fifteen-piece coffee set from Shelley is a rare find for any collector. The set features a beautiful botanical design in green and gold, with a glossy finish that adds a touch of elegance to any table setting. Made from fine bone china, this set includes coffee cans and saucers that are perfect for all occasions. The set was manufactured in the United Kingdom during the 1950s and has a vintage feel that adds character to any home. The backstamp is printed and the shape of the cups was named Mocha by Shelley. This set is a must-have for anyone who appreciates the beauty of vintage tableware.' Six bidders placed a total of fifteen bids between them raising the starting price of £40.00 to a final sale price of £305.26.

(30/09/24)


Shelley Lustre 'Butterfly' Large Bowl

This impressive lustre bowl was listed on Ebay recently. The description read '......A wonderful large Shelley blue lustre bowl decorated with gilded and enamelled Butterflies and gold flower sprigs. Meaures 9.5" diameter by 4.0" tall. Gold gild edges. In good condition with no chips or cracks, rings when tapped. Base stamped Shelley.'  Five bidders placed a total of fifteen bids with the winning bid reaching £180.75

(29/09/24)

A very rare Wileman Shelley "Dainty White" left handed chocolate pot. C.1896+.

This Dainty White pot has just sold on Ebay. The item description read - "A very rare Wileman Shelley Dainty White left handed chocolate pot C.1896+. Plain white ground - this one is the left hand version (a right hand version was also manufactured). The back stamp is the 1895 - 1910 mark. The shape of this chocolate pot is the Dainty shape which was produced between 1896 and 1966. Dimensions: diameter of base 97mm.(3.75 inches)/ height (to top of finial) 155mm.(6.00 inches). Condition: In very good condition with no chips or cracks. A small area of very faint light micro crazing with associated craze/stress line can only be seen using an eye glass. The chocolate pot has a very true sound to it when lightly tapped." 9 bidders placed 21 bids between them, the winning bid reaching £148.62.

(13/09/24)

Potteries Auctions Fine Art Sale 11-13 July 2024 &

Lacy Scott & Knight Home Interiors Auction 27 July 2024

These two July auctions featured a large number of Shelley and Wileman pieces, too many to list on this page. A separate schedule has been prepared which may be accessed via this link.

(07/24)

Shelley Cowens Loch Lomond Whisky Jug



This jug made by Shelley for Cowan's Whisky, Belfast appeared on Ebay recently. The simple description read:- "Very rare Shelley Cowan's Loch Lomond whisky jug for Belfast, 5 inches high and has a crack to the lip". This unusual piece attracted a lot of interest with five bidders placing a total of fourteen bids between them.The opening bid of £10.00 escalated rapidly to a closing bid of £557.98 plus postage.

(14/07/24)




Wileman & Co. New York Teapot

This teapot featured in Potteries Auctions sale of 20th Century Rare Ceramics, Collectables, Jewellery & Furniture at their Silverdale saleroom on 12 July 2024. Described in the catalogue as a 'Wileman & Co. New York shape tea pot. Designed by Frederick Rhead and initialled M.H. An incredibly rare tea pot from a private collection' it was listed with an estimate of £80 - 160. Bidding was swift and the piece sold for £200 plus fees.

(12/07/24)

Shelley Late Foley Jacobean Pattern Tray


This tray recently appeared on Ebay on a 'Buy it Now' listing. Described simply as 'RARE Shelley Late Foley Jacobean  Tray 11 3/4 x 8" great shape no chips or cracks' it sold quickly for the asking price of US $210.00 (£165.73). A great addition to someone's collection.

(21/06/24)


Shelley Queen Anne Garland Of Flowers Trio And Large Plate Pattern 11612 

This Shelley Queen Anne trio, with a matching large plate, sold on Ebay this week. It featured the delightful Garland of Flowers pattern number 11612 - a rare find. The description included "The exquisite multicoloured design is a testament to the craftsmanship of the original artisans who made it in the United Kingdom in 1926. The set includes a trio , and large plate, all of which are in excellent condition". Listed as a 'Buy it Now' item it sold quickly for £479.99.

(27/05/24)

Shelley Art Deco Trio, Black Crackle Pattern, Queen Anne Shape.

Another scarce item appeared on Ebay recently in the form of a Shelley Queen Anne trio. Desribed as ".....in the Black Crackle pattern - pink, blue mauve and amber flowers and green foilage on a black and white crackle background. The cup measures 3.125" across flats, saucer measures 5.325" across flats, plate measures 6.5" across flats, bases stamped. Circa 1925-1940. All pieces in good condition no chips or cracks some micro craze only seen under strong light, cup and plate ring when tapped." Ten bidders lined up to secure this trio, placing twenty bids between them, the winning bid being £230.78.


(12/5/24)

Large Shelley Walter Slater Geishas Lustre Bowl

Ebay recently listed a large Shelley Walter Slater shallow bowl with a gilt trim. Described as having "a lustre finish ground decorated with a Geisha girl in an ornate gold dress decorated with multi  coloured enamels. The bowl is in very good condition with no damages or repairs and rings when tapped. Gilt is pretty much intact. Some minor surface scratches. Clearly signed on the back. Measures approx 12.00 x 3.00 inches high." Four bidders placed a total of fifteen bids with the winning bid reaching £528.00.

27/4/24

Wileman Intarsio Faience Jardiniere and Stand



A further rare item Appeared in Busby's Auction was this jardiniere and stand. The description in the catalogue stated ".. A Wileman & Co. Foley Intarsio Faience jardiniere and stand, the baluster jardiniere with frill rim, the stand with circular top on a spirally moulded tapered column, olive green and yellow alternate bands with Art Nouveau style foliage, interspersed by entrelac bands. 96cm. high overall." The opening bid of £240.00 and estimate of £400-600.00 were well exceeded by the hammer price of £1450.00 plus fees. Talk about London buses.

(18/04/24)


Wileman Intarsio Stick Stand

This stand appeared in Busby's, Bridport, Fine Art and Antiques Auction on 18 April. The catalogue description read "...A Wileman & Co. Foley Intarsio ware stick stand with Art Nouveau frieze above stylised yellow flowers, scale panels below flanking fruiting grape sprays, stamped to reverse with Rd. number. 71 cm high. The estimate of £400-600.00 was quickly passed and the hammer finally fell at £950.00 plus fees. A rare piece.

(18/04/24)

White Shelley Girl

As if these highly sought after Shelley girls are not scarce enough, this unpainted one appeared in Philip Serrell's Fine Arts and Antiques Auction, Malvern, on 21 March. Grouped with other items the lot was described as 'A collection of porcelain, to include a Moore Brothers figure, a Shelley white porcelain figure, two Nao figures, a pair of Noritake vases, a Noritake covered dressing table pot and a Noritake bowl'. One sharp eyed collector identified this piece, which had some damage in the form of a long firing crack, but despite this the piece sold for a remarkably low figure of approx.£90.00 plus fees.

(21/03/24)

Wileman Foley Intarsio Clock

This fantastic Arts and Crafts Foley Intarsio clock, with the well known motto “Time and Tide waits for no man” sold on Ebay this week. The description read ".....This clock measures 25cm tall and is well decorated from top to bottom. The movement actually works too. There is some staining to the face. The pottery is in very good condition, there are 3 small patches where the paint doesn’t seem to have taken, although they are factory glazed and not damage. It is fully marked. A great piece". Ten bidders competed for this piece which finally sold for £330.00.

(19/03/24)

 

Potteries Auctions - More Items from Foley & Davies Collections

The Potteries Auction of 20th Century Rare Ceramics, Collectables, Jewellery & Furniture on 7-9 March included more items from the collections of Les and Enid Foley and Ian and Sheila Davies mentioned below, and produced some noteworthy results. Once again there are too many to list on this page but follow this link for further details.



(7-9/03/24)

Spano Lustre Vase

This Foley vase came up for sale in Dore & Rees' sale of the Private Collection of the Late George Withers in their Somerset showroom on 22 February. The catalogue description was as follows:
"A Foley Spano Lustre Vase c.1900 with copper lustre and floral decoration - 15cms. In good condition".

Bidding was brisk and the hammer price achieved was £140.00 (plus fees). An unusual piece.

(22/02/24)

Late Foley Intarsio Pottery Vase - 3692




This attractive small vase sold on Ebay recently. Described as "... A wonderful antique Foley 'Intarsio' vase, dating to earlier 20thC. Beautifully decorated. Measures just over 6 inches/15.5cm tall. Nice and clean, perfect. A lovely little vase". From a starting price of just £0.99, the price climbed steadily with five bidders plaing a total of ten bids between them. The final sale price was £109.00.

(11/02/24)


Shelley Teapot 'Old Ireland 13657'

This 'Old Ireland' teapot is a scarce pattern. Originally listed on Ebay Australia site for a 'Buy it Now' price of AUD 400.00 (£207.00 approx) the description read as follows..."features an enchanting pattern with pink heather set against a landscape foreground, capturing the essence of the Irish countryside. Proudly crafted in England, this piece is a fine example of the country's rich pottery heritage. Marked with the authentic “Fine Bone China, Shelley, England Old Ireland 1365. Considering its vintage status, this tea pot is in exemplary condition. There are no cracks or repairs, which is remarkable for a piece of its age. Minor wear is present, lending it a distinct character and authenticity that only vintage items possess". A 'Best Offer' price of undisclosed amount was accepted.

(31/01/24)

Wileman Intarsio Pastello Jug


Another Ebay listing, this wonderful Wileman Intarsio Pastello Ware Jug. The description red "....an orange roof cottage billowing blue smoke and nestled in purple hedges and trees. Circa 1894-1910. Measures 4.5" tallIn very good condition, no chips or cracks or restoration. Base stamped. Six bidders were anxious to secure this piece, placing a total of nine bids between them. The winning bid reached £165.00

(14/01/24)

Shelley Vincent Cameo Tea Set 'Dancing Ladies'

This stunning Shelley Cameo Tea set was listed on Ebay for a 'Buy it Now' price of £671.00. Described as "a beautiful Art Deco design with dancers within a black cameo and yellow ground. The set includes 7 trios, cake plate and jug and bowl.The shape is Vincent and the pattern dates from 1924. The condition is fabulous no cracks chips or hairlines. Dimensions approx: Cup 7cm height, Saucer 14cm, Plate 17cm, Cake plate 24cm." The set sold for the listed price.

(26/12/23)

Collection of Shelley Dainty White China

It is not often that we feature Dainty White pieces in this column, indeed a surfeit of such pieces in recent auctions has resulted in very low hammer prices. It is pleasing to see therefore that with the right combination of pieces, very acceptable results can be obtained. This collection appeared on Ebay as a 'Buy it Now' listing with a price tag of £400.00. The set comprised 5 x soup bowls with saucers, 5 x cups and saucers, 2 x gravy boats, 1 x footed drainer, 6 x 8 3/4" round plates, 6 x 4 5/8 square plates, 1 x 14" sandwich tray and 3 x small sandwich trays. This collection was snapped up very quickly at the listed price.

(05/12/23)

Foley and Davies Collections

Potteries Auctions at Silverdale showrooms on 9-11 November 2023 included items from the collections of Les and Enid Foley and Ian and Sheila Davies - former members of the UK's Shelley Group. There were too many items of interest to list all in this column however a separate summary of the more significant results can be viewed via this link. The image to the right shows a Wileman large squat vase which sold for £1400.00 - well above estimate.

(10/11/23)

Shelley Eve Lemonade Set


This 'Eve' lemonade set comprising jug and six tumblers was listed in Barsby's NSW October Antiques and Collectibles Sale on 22 October 2023. Estimated at AUD 80-130 bidding was slow and the set failed to reach the lower estimate, selling for just AUD60.00 (£31.23)- a bargain for the high bidder.

(22/10/23)


Wileman Dainty Kettle Handled Teapot Rd.272101

One of the less commonly found Dainty tea pots was sold on Ebay this week. The seller's description read:- "An extremely rare Wileman Foley China Shelley Dainty White Kettle teapot. C.1896.Plain white ground. The back stamp is the 1895-1910 mark. Dimensions: base 65mm (2.5 inches) x 87mm (3.5 inches) / distance from tip of spout to edge of handle 215mm (8.5 inches) / height to top of finial on lid 135mm (5.3 inches) / height to top of handle 190mm (7.5 inches)Condition: The body of the teapot has several fine hairlines and there are a couple of more visible cracks located at the bottom of the spout. There is a fleabite chip on the tip of the spout otherwise no other chips. The lid has all over micro-crazing which gives it a slightly off white look to it.  Otherwise the teapot has a good clean look to it and does display very well. Despite the various condition issues the teapot still retains a bit of a sound to it when lightly tapped. A really rare find". Four bidders competed for this piece which sold finally for £94.89. (13/10/23)

Suffrage Intarsio Teapot 3595

This satirical teapot was auctioned by Bonhams, Knightsbridge in their 'Votes for Women - The Lesley Mees Collection' on 22 September 2023. Wileman/Shelley made several tea and coffee pots depicting political and contempory figures. This rare example is thought to depict Lydia Becker (1827-90) the most prominent campaigner for women's suffrage in the nineteenth century. The catalogue entry read "Frederick Rhead for Foley 'Intarsio' teapot, in the form of a suffrage supporter, wearing a long navy blue coat, red waistcoat and a 'Votes for Women' badge on her label, a leaflet sticking out of her pocket, the head forming the lid, 'Intarsio' England marks, painted number 3595 inside lid, 180mm. high, England, [c.1900]". The piece sold for £1536.00 inc. fees."

(22/09/23)


Wileman & Co - Graduated Jugs - Pattern No.7015

Potteries Auctions - Silverdale listed these Wileman graduated jugs in their online auction of 20th Century Pottery Collectables & Jewellery on 8 September 2023. The catalogue described them as: "Wileman & Co gradulated jugs, pattern 7015. Heights 19cm, 16.5cm, 15cm (3)". Estimated at £20-40 there were only three bidders and the hammer fell at £25.00 plus fees. A disappointing figure despite being within estimate.

(08/09/23)

Shelley Moorcroft Style Pomegranate Fruit Footed Bowl


This piece appeared on Ebay.com recently listed as a 'Buy it Now' item for US$350.00 (£278.78) on 24 August 2023.The description read: - "Antique Shelley with Moorcroft manner pomegranate fruit footed bowl very Rare. Very good condition without damages. Diameter 7 1/8" Height 3 3/8". The piece sold on 3 September 2023 for the listed price.

(03/09/23)



Unusual and Rare Shelley Pedestal Dish (? Wine Bottle Holder)

This unusual item appeared on Ebay recentlylisted at a starting price of £25.00. THe description read:- 'An unusual and rare Shelley Foley White Pestal Dish, ruffled edges, stamped to base.Measures 7.5" x 4.375" x 4.25" tall. In good condition, no chips has a small repair to one corner, some crazing A fine unusual addition to any collection". Four bidders placed a total of seventeen bids between them with the winning bid reaching £273.00.

(20/08/23)

Shelley Ludlow Black and Gold Cup and Saucer P/No. 13260


This elegant cup and saucer came up for sale on Ebay recently. Described as :- '...... Beautiful shiny gold and black porcelain panels with gold handle. This Shelley set is so artistic and cute it makes you smile. Cup is 2 1/4" tall and saucer 5 5/8" wide, Backstamp 'Fine Bone China, Shelley, England, 1940 - 1966'. Condition - Excellent vintage with no chips cracks or flaws...'.It was listed at US$280.00 (£224.62) but a 'Best offer' of unknown amount was accepted.

(31/07/2023)

Wileman Foley Faience Charger

This charger came up for auction in Barsby's NSW - 'Antiques and Collectables' sale on 16 July 2023. The catalogue descrption read:- "Wileman Art Nouveau Foley 'Faience' charger. Hand painted figural decoration, to centre, marked to base and Reg No. 330300, circa 1900, (diameter 36 cm. approx). With an estimate of AU$150.00 - 250.00 bidding was swift with the final hammer price reaching AU$700.00.

(16/07/2023)


Wileman Foley Intarsio Coffee Pot - Lord Salisbury No.330304



This rare Wileman Foley Iintarsio Coffee Pot p/n 330304 is a political caricature of Lord Salisbury. You do see several political caricature Teapots come up for sale but you very rarely see the coffee pots come to the market. This is a lovely piece, in excellent condition with no chips, cracks or restoration.It measures 7 1/2” inches or 19cm high. Circa 1910s. This one was listed on Ebay where it sold this week for the 'Buy it Now' price of £850.00.

(04/07/23)



Wileman Japan Teapot with Stand No. 3476

This interesting teapot appeared on Ebay recently. The description read - "Antique Wileman & Co Shelley Japan - 3476 teapot with stand. Pot height 18.5cm. Length - handle to spout 22cm. Stand 17.5cm. Some light wear to the gild in places and some light staining on the base and lid. Otherwise in very good condition. No chips or cracks."The piece sold for a 'Buy it Now' price of £995.00.

(15/06/23)

Shelley 'Countyside Chintz' Miniature Cup and Saucer No.13690 C.1945-66.

Some miniature pieces continue to attract high prices on Ebay. This chintz cup and saucer sold for US$400.00 (£320.00) recently. Described as - 'A rare Shelley fine bone china Canterbury shape miniature tea cup & saucer in the CountrySide chintz pattern No.13690 with pale green trim. The cup is 1 5/8" tall & 1 1/2" in diameter; the sauce is 3" in diameter.  Both items are in very good condition with no chips, cracks, crazing or repairs. Both have the Shelley mark in green. This Shelley mark was used from 1945 - 1966'. Seven bidders placed Sixteen bids between them to acquire this piece.

(21/06/23)

Wileman & Co Pattern Book

Once in a while a truly rare item appears at auction, in this case at Adam Partridge Macclesfield salesroom. Described in the catalogue as "Wileman & Co (Shelley); an early 20th century pattern book enclosing one hundred and forty-six watercolour designs with annotations for colours, various shapes and items including many vases. The pages measure 32.5cm x 24.5 cm. There are 150 sides of designs and 174 page sides which are blank mostly to the end. The binding is in very poor condition. Pages rounded at the corners and grubby at edges". After an initial flurry of bids there were only two main bidders, the winning bid coming from the Shelley Group (for an undisclosed amount)

(24/05/23)

Shelley 'Bubbles' Pattern 11182 Coffee Pot

This Shelley Mocha Shape "Bubbles" pattern 11182 coffee pot attracted the interest of three bidders when it appeared on Ebay recently. The description read "...........This is an extremely rare Coffee Pot in the absolutely stunning pattern known as ‘Bubbles”.The Shelley Bubbles pattern dates between 1921 and 1926. The colours of yellow, blue and white are superb. There are no chips, cracks or crazing to the Coffee Pot itself - the spout is perfect as is the handle and the outside of the lid. There are a couple of chips to the inside of the lid however this is clearly not visible once in place.The pot measures approximately 7.5 inches tall and from the tip of the spout to the handle approximately 6.5” across." The three bidders placed 14 bids between them to secure this piece which finally reached a price of £310.00.
(26/05/23)


Shelley Queen Anne Teaset - 33 Pieces

This Queen Anne teaset attracted a lot of interest when it appeared on Ebay recently. Described simply as a "thirty three piece Shelley England Bone China Tea Set - 10 cups, 10 saucers, 10 side plates, 1 sandwich/serving plate, 1 sugar basin, 1 milk jug - never used, family heirloom." Photographs showed pattern no. 11657/48 -(gold vine and trellis print on orange ground). Starting at just £0.99, 11 bidders placed a further 26 bids to take the final sale price to £520.00.

(15/05/23)

Wileman Intarsio Pedestal & Base



This magnificent Wileman Intarsio pedestal and base (minus jardiniere) came up for sale at Litchfield Auctions, Connecticut, USA. on 25 April 2023. The catalogue description read simply:- "English ceramic pedestal and base marked 'Wileman & Co' - 26.5 inches high". Estimated at US$80.00 -120.00 the item failed to attract much attention and a hammer price of just US$40.00 plus fees was achieved. An absolute bargain for someone!

(25/04/23)



7 Shelley Tropical Fish Coffee Cans & Saucers for Rowland Ward Kenya Nairobi

Listed on Ebay recently are these 7 Shelley Tropical Fish Coffee Cans & Saucers for Rowland Ward Kenya Nairobi. Produced in the 1940's they are becoming difficult to find. They are in as new condition no chips, cracks, crazing or restoration. Measurements are cups 6cm tall by 5cm diameter, the saucers are just under 12cm diameter. The cups and the saucers are fully marked on the under sides. They were quickly snapped up for a 'Buy it Now' price of £175.00.

(04/04/23)
Wileman & Co Foley Faience Vase


This Faience vase caught the eyes of two collectors when it appeared on Ebay recently. The description was rather brief - "...stands 7” high by 6” across base and 1.25” across top. The backstamp reads the foley “faience” England. I believe this pre dates Shelley. There is some light crazing on the base of the pot...... The leaf pattern is a raised design". The ground colour is common to others but Its scarcity is that it is very skilfully tube lined and the centre of the leaves have tiny, raised dots. This decoration has not been seen before on other Faience pieces. Tube lined ware was manufactured by Wileman, with its Urbato ware, dating from approximately the same period but in a different style. The winning bid was £52.72.

(15/03/23)


Early Wileman Fairy Trio, Panelled Decoration Turquoise Enamel

This early Wileman trio was hotly contested when it sold on Ebay this week. Described as "..Early Shelley Foley Wileman Trio in Panelled Decoration pattern #6061. Decorated with gold gild and turquoise blue enamelled decoration on panels in the form of flowers. Rare pattern. Cup measures 3.5" dia, saucer measures 5.5" dia, plate measures 7.0" dia. Circa 1872-1890." Twenty one bids were placed by six bidders with the winning bid reaching £225.00.

(13/03/23)

Shelley China 'Bubbles' Pattern Cabaret Tea Set c.1925

This set appeared in Cheffins Art and Design sale at Cmbridge on 23 February. The bcatalogue described it as follows - "Art deco Shelley China 'Bubbles' pattern batchelor's tea set circa 1925, pattern no.11182, to include two tea cups and saucers, teapot, milk jug, sugar bowl and an oval serving tray, printed and painted marks to underside. The tray36cm wide. There is a hairline crack (stained) to the inner rim of the teapot, milk jug and sugar bowl also cracked, other pieces in good condition, noting some scuffs and wear". The hammer price realised was £260.00 plus fees.

(23/02/23)

Wileman Fola Candle Lamp

Making an appearance at Eastbourne Auctions 'Antiques Collectables and General Sale' on 15 February was this Wileman candle lamp. The catalogue description read - "Foley Wileman vVictorian aethestic Fola bamboo design candlestick - 19cm high". Although missing its shade the piece apeared in good condition. Bidding progressed quickly and the final hammer price reached £75.00 plus fees.

(15/02/23)


Wileman Foley Pink Dolly Varden Cabaret Tray - c1890


This rare Wileman Foley pink Dolly Varden cabaret tray has just sold on Ebay. Described as " Lovely condition for its age, with no cracks or chips. Marked to base with number. Dolly Varden pink pattern. Some crazing and wear from age, edge gilding faded in some areas, but this is a beautiful piece in lovely condition. Almost 40cm at longest length and 32cm width, lovely floral shape, boldly coloured in pink. Early Shelley piece. Footed tray, serving tray, tea tray". Listed as a 'Buy it Now' item, a best offer price of £310.00 was accepted by the seller.

(09/02/23)


Wileman Foley Waisted Cylindrical 3 Handled Vase

Bamfords (Bakewell) Country Home Interiors and Collectors Auction on 25 January 2023 contained two pieces of interest. The first, this waisted vase with three spur feet, by Frederick Rhead printed with the Queen of Hearts - 16.5 cm high, printed mark, pattern no. 3737. The sale price achieved on the day was £150.00 plus fees.

(25/1/23)

Shelley (Late Foley) Match Striker and Holder



The second piece in the same sale was this Shelley (Late Foley) advertising match striker and holder for White Horse Whisky, the lower textured half in white with a White Horse blue collar. Backstamped Rd.384295 the striker measured 11.0 cm in diameter. A hammer price of £30.00 plus fees was realised.

(25/1/23)



Shelley 'Art Deco' Tazza Fruit Bowl, 'Jazz Circles' Pattern No.8462

This stylish Shelley bowl decorated in the Jazz Circles 8462 pattern against a black ground sold on Ebay this week. The description included "....The backstamp indicates it was made between 1910 and 1925. It certainly screams Art Deco, especially with the bold yellow exterior. It is fully marked to the base 'Made In England. Shelley. 509, 8462' and measures 8 inches in diameter by 7 inches tall. It is in great condition". Listed as a 'Buy it Now' item at £300.00, the seller accepted a best offer (unknown) below this amount.

(23/01/23


Wileman Bouillon Shell shape Cup & Saucer

This 1890 Mid Era Wileman (pre-Shelley) Shell Shape Double Handle Bouillon Cup & Saucer - Pattern #4776, RN 150035 sold on Ebay on 7 January 2023. Shelley Collector’s registration database logs this as an 1890 production. 3.5” in diameter, 5” from handle to handle. 2.25” tall. Saucer is 5.63” in diameter. Described as being in "stunning condition! Minimal gold loss. Some scratching present to the glaze surface. The set has been meticulously checked and there are no cracks, chips, or repairs present. There are a few glazing flaws around the handles of the cup. Sold as is!". A best offer based on an original listing price of £290.54 was accepted.

(07/01/23)


Shelley Mabel Lucie Attwell Little Girl with her Dog


Just sold on Ebay on a 'Buy it Now' listing is this cute Mabel Lucie Attwell figurine. Described as "Mabel Lucie Attwell, Child and her Dog - it is in excellent condition and has the Shelley backstamp. The small statue is in excellent condition with no chips cracks or scuff marks. Although it is not marked on the foot with MBA it has the Shelley monogram underneath". The piece sold for £295.00.

(16/12/22)


Shelley Lustre Vase by Walter Slater



This turquoise and cream lustre vase with fish pattern by Walter Slater came up for auction at Whitton and Laing's Exeter sale on 2 December 2022. Described as 'Shelley Lustre Fish Vase - 10" high' - on the day it reached a hammer price of £50.00 plus fees.
UPDATE - Although the original catalogue description made no reference to any damage, a subsequent condition report revealed a 50mm V shaped crack from the rim.

(02/12/22)




Wileman Foley Faience Mustard Potted Bowl

This unusual bowl appeared on Ebay recently. Listed on a 'But it Now' basis with a price tag of £355.00 this piece was snapped up quickly. The description read - "An interesting fruit bowl, has a stunning decoration, a mustard colour on the inside a slip glaaze and the outside is all pitted with a dark glaze. It is a typical art pottery piece, it is in excellent condition. The bowl is 6.5cm high X 19 across. Has a Wileman Foleybackstamp with the pattern number 11025. A real must have piece".

(07/11/22)

Shelley Art Deco Eve Teapot - Sunway

This piece appeared on Ebay with minimal description and a starting price of £250.00. It is a Shelley Eve teapot Rd.756533 in Sunray - Green pattern No. 11797. The photos of the underside show the usual Shelley cartouche for 1925-45 and in addition "Lawleys, Est. Philips 1760, Regent St".The condition was stated as good. Ten bidders placed a total of five bids between them with the winning bid reaching £1,120.00.

(06/11/22)


Wileman & Co. Foley Jardiniere Stand


Fieldings Auctioneer's 'Decades of Design' sale on 20 October featured this splendid jardiniere stand. The catalogue description read:-"In the manner of Frederick Rhead - Wileman & Co Foley - A large late 19th to early 20th Century Aesthetic jardiniere stand decorated with cranes flying towards the sun with water lily beneath, printed mark, height 72cm, S/D." The auctioneers estimate was placed at £120-150 but bidding was brisk and the hammer eventually fell at £360.00.

(20/10/22)

Shelley Yellow Dainty Floral Handled Coffee Pot C.1932



This floral handled coffee pot caused quite a stir when it appeared on Ebay last week. We are used to seeing similar handled cups quite frquently and they usually attractd a good price when sold, but this piece turned out to be even more desirable. Listed as pattern no. 11993/31 in excellent pristine condition with no chips, cracks, crazing, scratching, rubbing or any sign of wear whatsoever. Height to top of finial 7.5". Thirteen bidders placed a total of twenty three bids, the final bid reaching £1019.99.

(15/10/22)



Wileman Foley Intarsio Jar and Cover

This previously unseen Intarsio jar appeared in Golding and Young's Grantham auction on 5 October 2022. The catalogue description read - "A Wileman and Co. Foley Intarsio jar and cover, decorated with bluebells against a dark blue ground, with brown highlights, pattern number 3055, printed marks, 13cm high." The condition report suggested substantial restoration but despite this the piece sold over estimate (£80-120) with the hammer falling at £160.00 (plus fees).

(5/10/22)

Wileman Dolly Varden Tea for Two Cabaret Set


This lovely tea for two cabaret set in pale blue Dolly Varden pattern has just sold on Ebay for £950.00. The set comprised teapot, sugar bowl, milk jug, two cups and saucers and a cabaret tray. All items were stated as in remarkable condition for age, with no chips or cracks apart from the tray which had a minor chip repair. Backstamped Wileman with the pattern number 3750 handwritten in gilt, and Rd.number 60650 for the shape, this set was snapped up quickly after listing.

(07/10/22)

Shelley Art Deco Queen Anne Tea for Two Pattern No. 11577/3 Fruit Border

This listing of a Queen Anne tea for two set attracted a lot of interest when it appeared on Ebay recently. The set was complete apart from a sugar bowl and the desription noted that there was... "no damage, just a few marks which may well have always been there, on the handle of the pot and inside the milk jug. This is the "Morning" version of Tea for Two as it has the rare and wonderful small plate just 12 cm across, much smaller than the saucers. The tea pot has a capacity of one pint and is a maximum of 23cm wide and 12cm high. The tea cups are 7cm high, larger than the dinky milk jug which is 5cm high and the saucers are 12cm across". 28 bids were placed by 13 bidders with the winning bid reaching £380.00 

(21/09/22)

Shelley Dainty Blue Egg Cups

Another interesting listing has just sold on Ebay this week for an undisclosed price. The items were described as 3 single Dainty Blue egg cups - not quite what the image shows! The items were listed at a 'Buy it Now' price of US $1000 with postage and UK import charges of approx US $375 in addition, bringing the total to US $1375 (£1186.42). Unfortunately we will never know the actual price as the seller acceoted a 'Best offer price'.

(09/09/22)

Shelley Dainty Flower Handled Coffee Pot 'Cornflower'

On 13 August this piece was purchased on Ebay on a 'Buy it now' listing. Described by the seller as " Shelley Cornflower Handle Dainty Coffee Pot. Very rare and desirable flower handle to handle and lid. Shelley Rd.272101 which was first registered around C1896. Measures 16cm in height plus the lid. Condition - Excellent and without damage, chips, restoration or any tinkering - The lid and lugs are excellent too - Spout is excellent - Stamped to base". Originally listed at £395.00, an unknown Best Offer price was accepted.

(13/08/22)

Wileman Empire Tea Set 208329.


This fabulous Empire tea set sold on Ebay this week.The item was described simply as - "Wileman Foley pre-Shelley lovely set. Number on bottom of set is 208329". Despite the lack of detail, seven bidders clamoured to obtain the set placing twenty nine bids between them. The final bid was £611.00 placed by the opening and eventual winning bidder. A nice little set.

(04/07/22)

Summer Glory - Tea for One Set

This tea for one set has just sold on Ebay last week. Described simply as " a tea for one set by Shelley in the Summer Glory pattern", the set attracted some interest. Five bidders competed placing thirteen bids between them. The winning bid reached £334.00. A nice little set.

(11/06/22)

White Dainty Floral Handled Teapot



This plain white Dainty teapot with floral handle came up for sale on 14 May. The description read.. "a stunning and scarce Shelley Fine Bone China Dainty Teapot ~ White ~ Embossed Pattern and Florals ~ 272101 ~ Scalloped Edge ~ Approx 3/4 Pint ~Made by the Famous Maker in Staffordshire, England. Measurements Approx:  21 cms from Spout End to Handle End; 11.5 cms High. I cannot see any chips or cracks or casing, just a great piece of ware." Six bidders were interested in this piece and a total of 13 bids were placed - the winning bid reaching £331.11 in the closing seconds of the auction.

(14/05/22)


Wileman Foley Cabaret Tea Set 1887

This cabaret set in the popular Alexandra design, consisting of a cabaret tray, 4 cups, 4 saucers , teapot, sugar bowl, and milk jug, was sold on Ebay this week. This design using blue and red and some gilding was registered as pattern number 88523 in 1887. Stated as being in 'amazing condition' the set did have some minor rubbing to gilding and a small chip on the inside of the teapot. Eight bidders competed to secure this for their collection with the final bid being £264.09.

(06/05/22)

Foley Wileman Intarsio Vase Swans



This Intarsio vase pattern number 3110 appeared on Ebay this week. Described simply as "Foley Wileman Intarsio Vase as shown 13 cm  tall and in excellent condition ,vibrant colours and  no damage, super little vase" - it attracted a fair amount of interest. Eight bidders placed a total of twelve bids between them with the winning bid reaching £322.00.

(26/04/22)


Rare Art Nouveau pair of Wileman Foley Faience Urns 30cm 'Old Chelsea'


This splendid pair of Faience urns was listed on Ebay as a 'Buy it Now' option for £655.00. The very simple description read - "Rare Art Nouveau pair Wileman Co Foley Faience urns 30cm Old Chelsea. There is a repair to one of the urns ...(photos supplied)....but still stunning. Despite the damage the pairwere snapped up quickly.

(09/04/22)

Wileman Late Foley Intarsio Urn and Cover 3570

This piece was sold on Ebay on 3 April. Described as " a stunning piece of early pottery resembles a lamp with twin handles. Painted in a typical Art Nouveau design in shades of blue , brown, green, purple, yellow and maroon with twin handles in brown. The urn has a narrow neck with finial shaped cover in brown, green and yellow. Measures 22.8 cm from handle to handle. 18cm to top of cover. The base of the urn carries the Shelley 'Late Foley backstamp and the number 3570. Great provenance from a private collection." Two bidders competed for this piece which finally sold for £302.00.

(03/04/22)

Wileman Intarsio Figure - Lord Salisbury


This Intarsio figure appeared in Anderson and Garland's Home and Interiors Auction on 5 April 2022. Described in the catalogue as "An early 20th Century Foley 'Intarsio' novelty political character coffee pot, depicting the Marquis of Salisbury, printed marks to underside RD no. 330304, 18.5cms high (damages)". Bidding opened at £25 and increased slowly to £95.00 +fees. Not a high price considering the scarcity of these charcter coffee pots.

(05/04/22)


Shelley Vogue 11771 Horn of Flowers tea trio - wonderfully rare

This Vogue trio has just sold on Ebay for a 'Buy it Now' price of AU$1349.00 (£769.40). Described as "a very nice, rare, excellent condition, Shelley Vogue 11771 Horn of Flowers tea trio. All pieces ping beautifully, and the colours are good and strong. These sets were produced fairly early in the Vogue production, the early 1930's and did not continue for too long. Of the 3 colours for Horn of Flowers, this is certainly the rarest, probably the prettiest, and quite difficult to get. Few typical factory marks, and maybe one or two very minor, small scratches as occurs on these types of colours, displays beautifully."
(30/03/22)


Wileman & Co. Intarsio lidded vase: Pattern no 3248


This Intarsio lidded vase came up for auction in the three day Potteries Auction on 12 March 2022. The catalogue listing described the piece as: 'Wileman & Co. Intarsio lidded vase: Pattern no 3248, cranes on a green ground, height 29.5cm'. The estimate was placed between £300 - 600 but on the day the hammer fell at £750.00 plus fees - a good result.

(12/03/22)

Shelley Tall Trees Sunrise Muffin Dish


This rare muffin dish sold on Ebay on a 'Buy it Now' listing for £500.00. The description read: ".. a stunning Shelley muffin dish from the Art Deco period. It is in the ever desirable Tall Trees & Sunrise. It is decorated with a countryside scene with the sun rising between stylised trees with a field and gate in the foreground that extends over the lid. The design is coloured in yellow, black and grey. The rims and handle are highlighted in yellow. This design of this piece is so evocative of the Art Deco period, dating from the 1930s. 

The dish is in great condition. It has no chips, cracks or repairs. The pattern is fine and bright, with some rubbing or pattern loss to small areas. It is marked on the base with the Shelley England mark & the numbers 11278. There are some firing, age & usage marks which is common in ceramics of this age.The approximate measurements are:Base: 20.5cm diameter, Lid: 16cm diameter."
(13/02/22)

Yellow Shelley Girl


Somewhat like London Buses we wait a while for these advertising figues to come along and then two appear in quick succession. Whilst the Paisley colourway is always the favourite and commands the higher prices others still attract a lot of interest. This one turned up at Windsor Auctions today carrying an estimate of just £20 - 40.00. This was quickly surpassed when bidding opened and the hammer fell at £950.00 (plus fees).

(28/01/22)


Shelley China Dainty Black & Gold Star Flower Harlequin Cup & Saucer


This striking Dainty cup and saucer in black and gold alternating panels attracted considerable interest when it appeared on Ebay. The description read " Rare Shelley China Dainty black and gold star flower Harlequin cup and saucer.......The cup is 2 1/4" tall and the saucer is 5 5/8" wide....No chips / cracks / or repairs". Eleven bidders placed fifty one bids between them with the winning bidder securing this wonderful duo for US$273.00 (£202.33).

(20/01/22)


Late Foley Intarsio Clock Case

This Intarsio clock case appeared on Ebay recently. Described as "This very rare Shelley Intarsio clock case is decorated in an abstract design by Walter Slater. It is 10.5 inches tall and 7.5 inches across. It is generally in good condition but has had professional restoration to the top and the base which has been well done. The design is bright and strong. It has the original clock movement but it is not known if it is working as it lacks the winder. Marked on the back with the Late Foley mark." Advertised as a 'Buy it Now' item with a price tag of £545.00, the seller accepted an unknown 'Best Offer' price. An interesting piece.

(13/01/22)

Wileman Foley Intarsio Comport



This stunning comport designed by Frederick Rhead appeared in Mellors and Kirk Nottingham auction on 11 January 2022. Described as "A Wileman & Co Foley "Intarsio" comport, designed by Frederick Rhead c1895-1900, printed and painted with a band of fish, 18cm high, printed mark, "Intarsio", Rd No 330286 and 3388. Good condition, no restoration. Plenty of interest shown in this item with the hammer falling at £350.00 (plus fees).

(12/01/22)



Shelley China Queen Anne Pattern 11512/1 3-Piece Tea Pink & Black Set

This unusual colourway Queen Anne trio came up for auction on Ebay this week. Although listed as an auction item the starting price of £552.99 resulted in just one person prepared to bid. The item had minimal description save for the condition report which stated: "some marks to the underside on the table touching rim as expected."

(19/12/21)

Shelley China Shop Doormat


There will not be many collectors out there who have one of these in their collection so when this one appeared on Ebay it might have attracted more attention. However with a starting price of £249.00 there were only two potential buyers interested. The opening bid was placed just minutes after the item was listed on 5 December but this was beaten by a last minute bid of £254.00 just seconds before the auction ended. Will anyone be allowed to wipe their feet on it - probably not!



(15/12/21)

Foley Intarsio Salad Bowl and Servers

Appearing in Hawleys Auctioneers and Valuers Antiques and Fine Art sale at Beverley on 5 December 2021, was this Foley Intarsio salad dish and serving spoons. Together with five other items (3 Hornsea Pottery lidded jars, a Hornsea parsley dish and an 'unknown' vase), the lot was estimated at £40-60. The condition report stated - "Salad bowl with cracks and repair, servers in good condition with signs of wear to the metal, small chip to base of vase and crackle to glaze. Others in good used condition". Once again bidding was swift and a hammer price of £320.00 (plus fees) achieved.

(05/12/21)

Shelley Part Pink and White Dainty Breakfast Set 

This part breakfast set comprising a muffin dish, tea pot, coffee pot, hot water jug, sugar bowl, milk jug, egg cup, tea cup, saucer and two tea plates, went on sale at Wessex Auction Rooms on 27 November 2021. In the pink and white panels pattern but without floral handle, this part set was estimated at £30.00 - £40.00. Generally, condition was good but the tea cup had a bad hairline crack. Despite this bidding was swift and the hammer price rose quickly to reach £750.00 (plus fees). A popular lot.


(27/11/21)

Light Green Shelley Girl


Always of interest this 'Shelley Girl' appeared in the Potteries Auction 3 Day Sale 11 - 13 November 2021. Described in the catalogue as a "Shelley Art Deco figure of a seated lady with tea cup in orange and light green colourway, height 31 cm. Small chip to base edge". Although not the most popular colourway, the original estimate of £200-400.00 was quickly exceeded as two buyers competed against each other to raise the final hammer price to £1700.00 + fees.

(12/11/21)


Mabel Lucie Attwell Mug with Roden Stirling Handle

This childrens mug by Mabel Lucie Attwell is not often seen with a silver rim and handle. However such an item appeared in Richard Winterton Auctioneer's Lichfield sale on 25 October 2021. The catalogue description read.." Shelley Mabel Lucie Attwell drinking mug with Roden sterling silver handle and bands to rims, Roden foil sticker to side of mug, transfer printed girl with doll and Boo Boos decoration (Condition report :good)". Bidding was brisk and a hammer price of £240.00 + fees was achieved.

(25/10/21)

Wileman Intarsio Arts and Crafts 'Medieval' Vase


Appearing on Ebay last month was this wonderful Frederick Rhead vase. Described as "this wonderful and rarest of vintage Intarsio consisting of a stunning Persian shaped 29.5 cm high mega rare vase. In remarkable condition with no chips, cracks or restoration. Just fabulous and in the stunning, vibrant and rarely seen Medieval ladies 1902 design ". This piece attracted seven bidders who placed nine bids in all with the final sale price reaching £355.50.

(16/09/21)

Hilda Cowham - Three Piece Nursery Tea Set

This novelty childrens set appeared in Lacy Scott & Knight's Twentieth Century Art & Design Auction on 19 September 2021. Although the individual pieces are not uncommon, it is unusual to find the complete set together and undamaged. As may have been expected, bidding was swift and the final hammer price of £520.00 (+ 33% fees and VAT) was above the auctioneers estimate of £300 - £500. A nice addition to someones collection.

(10/09/21)


Shelley - Dainty Lily of the Valley Coffee Pot Creamer, Sugar, Tray
br /> This Dainty coffee pot set in New York was listed recently on Ebay.com as a 'Buy it Now' item. Simply described as a "Very rare, mint condition, near flawless, Shelley fine china porcelain Dainty coffee/tea pot sugar creamer set". The seller paid the asking price of $2400.00 less 10% discount ($2160 or £1557.09). Wow!

(04/09/21)


Wileman Intarsio Watsons Scotch Whisky Flask - Frederick Rhead c.1903




This rare antique stoneware flask advertising Watsons Scotch made by Wileman circa 1900 has recently sold on Ebay. Stated as in very good condition with no chips, cracks or repairs and importantly retaining its original cork stopper. Approximate height 10.5 inches. The sale price reached £360.00 after five bidders had competed placing seven bids in all.


(27/08/21)


Wileman Foley Intarsio Clock

This lot appeared in Wooley and Wallis' Arts and Crafts Sale at Salisbury on 24 August 2021. Described in the catalogue as 'A Foley Intarsio mantel clock 'Keep Time' designed by Frederick Rhead, model no.3331, printed and painted in colours with a medieval musician playing a horn, circular dial with Arabic numerals, printed factory mark, painted inscription to reverse, DRC paper label and Loan 33 paper label 28cm. high'. Estimated at £150-200 bidding was brisk and a final hammer price of £450.00. + fees was realised.


(24/08/21)

Wileman Intarsio Shakespeare Bowl


This stunning Wileman Foley Intarsio bowl features the Shakespeare play 'Much About Nothing'. It is 10 inches in diameter, in excellent condition with no chips cracks or repairs, and rings well when struck. The pattern and design are very bright and strong - it is marked on the base with the Foley Wileman Intarsio mark and Pattern No. 3502. It was listed recently on Ebay on a 'Buy it Now' basis and was quickly snapped up for the price of £325.00. A nice piece.

(24/08/21)

Shelley Dainty 'Wild Flowers' - Tea for Two Set

Another Ebay listing featured this pretty Shelley tea for two set in Wild Flower pattern and pink trim. The condition report read "All the pieces are in good condition, the teapot is lovely and clean with virtually no signs of use. All the pieces ring when tapped, one cup has a fine hairline, but still rings well. Teapot measures 5.00 x 7.75 inches, 1 x milk jug, 1 x sugar bowl, 2 x cups 2.25 inches, 2 x saucers 5.75 inches, 2 x side plates 4.50 inches". The set attracted fifteen bidders who between them plased thirty seven bids, the winning bid reaching £340.00.

(09/08/21)

Wileman Alexandra Pattern 4160 - 6 Trios and Cake Plate

This Wileman set was listed on Ebay recently on a 'Buy it Now' basis and reserved by a customer almost immediately. Described as ' Lovely rare Wileman tea set featuring a turquoise blue floral basket pattern with gold gilding to rimsProduced by Wileman & Co, Foley Potteries, Fenton, Staffordshire. Wileman backstamp was in use 1890-91. The registration numbers of 60650 / 60786 date to 1886...... One cup has a tiny discoloured scratch on the inner cup rim otherwise no other damage". The set sold for £830.00.

(27/07/21)

Foley 'Intarsio' Pottery Bowl

This attractive bowl appeared in Sworders Fine Art Auction at Stanstead on 13 July. The catalogue description read - "A Foley 'Intarsio' pottery bowl, designed by Frederick Rhead, the compressed globular vessel with a band of fish in colours, raised on slender brown supports on a circular foot, printed marks and numbered '338', 17cm high. The pottery appears bubbled to the rim and areas of on the plinth - otherwise condition good. The piece sold for £120.00 which was below the estimate range of £150 - £200

(13/07/21)


Very Rare Foley Wileman Advertising Plaque


This very rare advertising plaque has just sold on Ebay. The description read "..This very rare Foley Wileman advertising plaque shows off the Heraldic range. It is 10" x 8" and is in perfect condition with no chips cracks or restoration the colours and definition are very bright and strong ...it is marked on the front with the Foley Wileman mark. A very rare and collectable piece." Four bidders competed for this, placing ten bids between them. The final bid reached £355.00.

(08/07/21)



Frederick Rhead Shelley Foley China Wileman Intarsio "Geese" 3259 lidded vase

This Wileman Intarsio lidded vase by Frederick Rhead was listed on Ebay recently. Described as "A superb Foley China Wileman (Shelley) Intarsio "Geese" pattern No 3259 large size lidded vase. Pattern No 3259 Geese: Yellow, blue and brown flowers with green leaves and brown stems. Continuous ring of ducks in a field with blue sky. Dark green ground. The back stamp is the 1894-1910 mark. Dimensions: diameter of base 119mm (4.75 inches) / diameter at widest point 160mm (6.25 inches) / height (to top of finial) 324mm (12.75 inches).Condition: In very good clean condition with no chips, cracks, crazing or scratching. 4 tiny paint losses around the base of the vase otherwise all paintwork is generally in good order. Both pieces have a very good true sound to them when lightly tapped". The piece was sold on a 'Buy it Now' price for £575.00.

(25/06/21)

Shelley Art Deco Tea Service - Vogue 'Cornfield'

Shelley Art Deco period tea service 'Cornfield', with a black print, golden yellow cornfield flanked by grey trees and green grass. Reg. No. RD756533 was sold by Gerrards Auction Rooms on 10 June 2021. Marked Shelley to base, Pattern No. 2110, made between 1930 and 1933. Vogue shape,comprising: six tea cups, six saucers, a tea pot, milk jug and sugar bowl with triangular handles. Teapot has a small chip to inside top rim also a small chip on lid outside, 1 tea cup has big hairline cracks also a very big chip to base and an attempt on some restoration & 1 Saucer has chip to top rim area. Despite damage, bidding was swift and the estimate of £100 - 200 was well exceeded with a hammer price of £900.00.

(10/06/21)

Boxed set of 4 Napking Rings Maytime Chintz 1930s

Not often seen, this boxed set of napkin rings in Maytime chintz pattern appeared on Ebay this week. Described as "an original boxed set of 4 footed napkin rings, measure 2" diameter x 1.25" approx. No chips or cracks, some minor age consistent crazing. Handpainted number but no Shelley backstamp. Original box with inner branding. Externally excellent, inner tear at seam, plus foxing and black specks etc. all consistent with age." Six bidders competed with the winning bid reaching £300.00.

(31/05/21)

Wileman 'Fairy' Boer War / Robert Baden Powell Moustache Cup and Saucer c.1900.



This unusual Boer War themed moustache cup and saucer manufactured by Wileman in the Fairy design, came up for auction on Ebay on 13 May 2021. The description read "...the cup stands 7.3 cm. high and 10 cm. in diameter and the saucer measures 16 cm. in diameter. Apart from some minor age-related wear it is in very good condition without any damge or crazing". Seven bidders placed seventeen bids with the final winning bid reaching £48.00.

(13/05/21)

Shelley Vogue Harlequin Pattern Tea for 2 Set

This set appeared on www.ebay.com site recently.The item description read - "Shelley Vogue teapot jug sugar bowl  2 trios.  in the rare harlequin pattern.  pattern number 11741. the 2 trios and in great condition as is the jug bowl bowl and cake plate. the only damage is the teapot where there is a chip to the triangle . and a faint hairline to the edge on the spout - this is so rare".
Eight bidders competed for this set placing eighteen bids between them, the winning bid coming in at £1500.00 (US$ 2113.20).

(10/05/21)

Shelley Dainty Black Cup and Saucer


Not often seen on Ebay, this Dainty Black duo created a lot of interest when it was listed last week. With minimal description the piece attracted bids from nine bidders who placed a total of thirty three bids between them in an attempt to obtain this scarce item for their collections. With a starting price of US$ 99.00, bids climbed steadily with the final winning bid reaching US$ 962.00 (£696.00).

(28/04/21)

Wileman Intarsio Loving Cup No.3026 - 'Smokers'

This item appeared in the catalogue of Mellors and Kirk Antiques and Collectors Sale 14 April 2021. Described as " A Wileman and Co Intarsio Coupe, C.1900, decorated with pipe smokers, 15cm H, printed mark.Good condition, no restoration." Interestingly the 'smokers' pattern does not correspond to the printed pattern number on the base. Whilst the pattern is known on other pieces it has not been seen previously on this shape. Bidding was brisk with the hammer falling at £400.00 plus usual fees.

(14/04/21)


Wileman Snowdrop Shape Trio, Paeonies on Green Background No. 9869

This Wileman Snowdrop shape trio has just sold on a 'Buy it Now' listing on Ebay. The item description read - "Stunning Wileman Snowdrop shape, pink paeonies on a green background. Really beautiful combination of colour and style, typically Art Nouveau, in excellent condition, no chips, cracks or crazing. Everything pings, gilding around rims - excellent. Has the Wileman backstamp and No. 9869. Cup is 6cm tall. Saucer is 15cm across. Plate is 18cm across." Buy it Now price - £485.00

(13/04/21)


Wileman 5137 Shell Pattern - Cup, Saucer, Milk & Sugar - 3 Colour Ivy - C.1890

A real rare little gem appeared on Ebay this week. Listed as - "A Wileman pattern 5137. Circa 1890, This is known as the Shell Pattern 5137 in triple colour Ivy. Very very rare indeed! All pieces are free from cracks, chips or restoration. There is a stain however to the sugar bowl." The three pieces were snapped up for the 'Buy it Now' price of £595.00 by one happy buyer.

(26/03/21)


1916 Shelley 'Haddon' Bone China Coffee Set



This lovely coffee set complete with tray sold on Ebay this last week. Registered design No. 657898 and Pattern No. 10880 the set comprised coffee pot, 5 coffee cups, 4 saucers, a small sugar bowl and a cabaret tray, all in pristine condition. Although listed as an 'auction' item, only one bidder came forth and secured the set for the opening price of £149.99

(15/03/21)