Carltons Fantasia Ware Biscuit Barrel

Antiques : Ceramics, Porcelain

 

This example is a fake that has appeared in the past few years bearing a spurious Carlton Ware mark. Due to the excellent new production methods used at the factory to apply the decoration its 'hand painted' look (though actually a type of transfer) will sometimes fool even buyers and sellers who consider themselves to be knowledgeable. Several different types of items bearing this spurious Carlton mark are known and all are decorated with winged child-like figures amongst garden flowers.

This particular piece has a pristine look to it that should immediately raise suspicions that it may not be what it appears to be. The unmarked white metal holder and hinged lid, too, also help to identify it as a newer piece since neither exhibit signs of wear or patina. But the most glaring aspect about this item that identify it as a fake is the misspelling in the mark of the word, 'Burslem' as 'Burslam.'

No English maker would have made such a mistake in their back stamp.

This piece is approximately 8 1/2 inches tall.

Item ID: 2007RP00041