19th Century Majolica Dessert Service by Thomas Dimmock, Grape Leaf

• Pearlware - Pearlware is a type of earthenware pottery that was developed in the late 18th century in England, made from a mixture of clay, flint, and other materials, and is distinguished by its smooth, creamy white glaze. The glaze has a pearlescent quality, which is how the pottery got its name.
  
  Pearlware was developed as a more affordable alternative to porcelain, which was much more expensive and difficult to produce. It quickly became popular throughout England and Europe, and was exported to other parts of the world as well. It was particularly popular for making tableware, such as plates, bowls, and teapots, as well as decorative objects like figurines and vases.
  
  One of the most distinctive features of pearlware is its blue decoration. Many pieces of pearlware were decorated with blue patterns or designs, often featuring pastoral scenes, floral motifs, or geometric patterns. The blue decoration was typically applied over the white glaze, which created a striking contrast and made the designs stand out.
• Circa - A Latin term meaning 'about', often used in the antique trade to give an approximate date for the piece, usually considered to be five years on either side of the circa year. Thus, circa 1900 means the piece was made about 1900, probably between 1895 and 1905. The expression is sometimes abbreviated to c.1900.

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