Terracotta Boquet - Shorter & Son

Name: Shorter & Son 
 
Type: Terracotta Bouquet Divided Dish by Shorter & Son Ltd
 
Year: Circa 1940s–1950s
 
Set: No
 
Mark: Shorter & Son  - Bouquet / Genuine Staffordshire / Hand Painted / Shorter & Son Ltd / England
 
History: This sculptural divided dish is a charming example of mid-century British art pottery, crafted by Shorter & Son Ltd in Staffordshire. The backstamp identifies it as part of the "Bouquet" pattern series, known for its naturalistic floral reliefs and softly blended color palettes.
 
 
The dish features a molded flowing design reminiscent of Art Deco influences with its organic swirl form, highlighted by vibrant hand-painted daffodil and narcissus blossoms in full relief on both ends. The rich terracotta glaze lends warmth and contrasts beautifully with the green foliage detailing.
 
 
Pieces like this were primarily decorative but also used functionally for serving during the 1940s–50s in stylish post-war households. The split dish design suggests it may have served snacks or hors d'oeuvres.
 
 
Shorter & Son was celebrated for its inventive shapes and colourful glaze work, often producing one-of-a-kind hand-finished items in limited production runs. While not as globally collected as Clarice Cliff or Moorcroft, their wares are increasingly appreciated for their retro charm and distinctive craftsmanship.
 
Flaws: None