The Piece

A set of four hand-painted saucers by Gray’s Pottery, Stoke-on-Trent, England, featuring a bold grape and vine motif in deep plum over ivory ground. Each saucer displays stylized grape clusters, curling tendrils, and broad leaves arranged in rhythmic circular composition around a central well.

The saturated plum enamel contrasts crisply against the white ceramic body, while small green hand-applied dot accents add dimensional detail. The design reflects Gray’s distinctive interwar decorative style—graphic, confident, and unmistakably English.

Backstamped to underside:

“Hand-Painted
Gray’s Pottery
Made in Stoke-on-Trent
England”

Secondary mark featuring ship emblem also present.

Design & Construction

→ Form & Style:
Art Deco / early mid-century English decorative pottery. The circular grape motif reflects the stylized botanical patterns popular in the 1920s–1940s, when Gray’s Pottery became known for bold, hand-finished surface decoration.

→ Material:
Glazed earthenware with hand-painted enamel decoration. Raised enamel application visible in grape clusters and leaf outlines. Gloss glaze with crisp color saturation.

→ Markings:
Official Gray’s Pottery backstamp, Stoke-on-Trent, England. Secondary ship mark indicates export production.

History & Provenance

Gray’s Pottery operated in Stoke-on-Trent from the early 20th century and became especially known during the 1920s–30s for hand-decorated ceramics influenced by Art Deco design language.

Their wares often featured:

• Stylized fruit and botanical motifs

• Strong graphic outlines

• Bold color contrasts

• Hand-applied enamel accents

Unlike mass transferware, Gray’s decorative pieces were hand-finished, giving each example subtle variation and texture.

This set reflects that era’s blend of functional tableware and decorative art.

Condition

Very good vintage condition.

Hand-painted enamel remains vibrant with minimal wear. No major cracks or structural damage observed. Light age-appropriate surface wear consistent with mid-20th-century use.

Structurally sound and display-ready.

Product Details

Why It Belongs in Your Home

These are not delicate Victorian tea pieces.

They’re graphic. Bold. Architectural.

Perfect for:

• A layered English china wall

• A bar cart with moody glassware

• Open shelving against dark paint

• Paired with brass and wood

The plum tone reads sophisticated rather than sweet.

Small format. Strong presence.