made in Glasgow
This detail shows the trademark of the Glasgow potters, J. & M.P. Bell & Co. Ltd. The mark is on the base of a glazed transfer-printed earthenware oval ashet, made between 1881 and the 1920s.
There were many variations in Bell's marks. This one consists of a circular belt with a bell in the centre and a scroll underneath. On the belt are the initials 'J & MPB & Co Ld'. Around the bell are the words 'TRADE/MARK'. On the scroll underneath, is the pattern name 'COREA'.
Like many other potteries in the second half of the 19th century, Bell's most popular ware was transfer-printed earthenware, which was durable, decorative and affordable by the masses. Some designs were extremely well produced.
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