Mid 18thC English Antique Blue & White Delftware Flower Brick, Attributed to Liverpool, Circa 1760

A rare mid-18th-century English delftware flower brick, attributed to Liverpool, circa 1760. 

It exemplifies the Georgian taste for structured botanical display and ceramic refinement. For collectors of English delftware and decorative vessels, this is a sculptural piece of floral history.

Decorated in underglaze blue, with a stylised building with a large tower, flanked by trees and twenty-three ringed flower holes. References: Archer M (1997) Delftware, I.14, p369 and Grigsby L (2000) The Longridge Collection, D.376, p.417.

Condition –  The glaze has some minor fritting but overall, it is in good condition and displays well. Please refer to the images. A further detailed condition report is available upon request.

Size: Width 12 cm (5″) 

Historical Background:

Flower bricks were popular in the 18th century as decorative vessels designed to hold cut flowers upright in water. Their rectangular form and pierced top allowed for structured floral arrangements, often displayed on mantels or sideboards.

This example, attributed to Liverpool circa 1760, is crafted in tin-glazed earthenware and decorated in underglaze blue with floral motifs. The presence of 23 ringed holes suggests it was intended for elaborate displays, possibly in a Georgian parlour or dining room. Liverpool was a major centre for delftware production in the 18th century, known for its crisp decoration and refined forms.

Surviving flower bricks are rare, especially with intact glaze and full ring count. They offer collectors a glimpse into the domestic elegance and botanical enthusiasm of Georgian England.

To summarise – This is a vessel of botanical elegance — where Georgian floristry met Liverpool’s ceramic artistry in twenty-three perfect rings.