A rare and impressive Royal Worcester exhibition centrepiece 'The Sower centrepiece' modelled by James Hadley

intricately painted in blue, ivory and gilt colourways, the figural finial resting on a truncated base, above a wide shallow bowl with four applied mythical winged creatures above a shaped pedestal and triform base with applied devil heads and hoof feet, with impressed signature Hadley

height approximately 86cm, width of bowl approximately 40cm

Condition: Some wear to the centre of the bowl where fruit has been kept in it in the years. Otherwise some minor wear but no major damage or cracks. First hand inspection suggested.

Purchased by current owner from Worthing Auction Rooms in 1979. It is believed that this centrepiece was sold after the exhibition of Worcester around 1900 at the James Howell Store in Cardiff. A similar centrepiece but more simply decorated can be found on plate 78 Henry Sandon "Royal Worcester Porcelain 1862 to present day"