Ironstone China Jug or Pitcher Gaudy Welsh Bethesda Pattern Antique C 1825

A Gaudy Welsh "Bethesda" pattern octagonal Ironstone China jug or pitcher dating from the Georgian period of around 1825. It has under-glaze blue floral design highlighted with iron red, green enamel and orange lustre. It has a dragon handle with the dragon head being on the inside of the rim at the top and the bottom terminals being formed by the dragon legs and a tail.

The shape of the jug is similar to that of of the Mason's Fenton pattern, although this is not Mason's but the base is stamped "Ironstone China." The maker is unknown but a number of Staffordshire  manufacturers produced this type of ware.

It is a very handsome item and in good  antique condition with a filled chip to the right front of the rim and a feint hairline to the joint of the dragons right leg.

Height  6 inches ( 15.2 cm)
Length Handle 6 inches (15.2 cm)
Body diameter 3.75 inches (9.5 cm)
Weight 543 grammes unpacked