Soapy Iris - Ridgways, England

Name: Ridgways " Soapy Iris"
 
Type: Covered Soap Dish with Insert
 
Year: Imperial Semi-Porcelain, Ridgways (used c. 1891–1920s)
 
Set: No
 
Mark: Ridgways, England - Ridgways, England
 
History: This is a charming and utilitarian example of late Victorian to early Edwardian domestic porcelain by Ridgways, a renowned Staffordshire pottery operating under various partnerships from the 1830s through the mid-20th century. The impressed and transfer marks here indicate production around 1891–1920, as the “Imperial Semi-Porcelain” mark with crown and banner was used during that period.
 
 
The vessel is a covered soap dish, consisting of:
 
 
A pierced interior drainer insert to keep soap dry. A base bowl to catch drips. A lid with handle and hand-painted iris design in yellow and orange shades.
 
 
The floral decoration is hand-painted under glaze and loosely styled with soft brushwork, likely applied in a factory setting but with enough variation to retain some artisan flair. The pastel green wash and gently scalloped rim contribute to its delicate Edwardian aesthetic.
 
 
The glaze crackle, faint staining near the base insert, and age-appropriate wear suggest it has seen gentle use and remains intact—a rarity for utility pieces of this era. It would appeal to collectors of antique bathroom ware, Ridgways porcelain, or hand-painted Victorian ceramics.
 
Flaws: Chip on inner dish