Historical information

Ironstone is a porous earthenware, made of clay mixed with feldspar. Patented in 1813 by Charles James Mason in Staffordshire, England, it was an immediate success, and ironstone blanks were decorated with transfer patterns or hand painting to imitate Chinese porcelain.

Physical description

Alpine white English ironstone Wood & Sons, plate commemorating bicentenary of Australia, 1770-1970. Black and white depiction of HMS 'ENDEAVOUR', Capt. James Cook, Coats of Arms for states of Australia, Australian Coat of Arms; background of state floral emblems.

Inscriptions & markings

Front: 'To commemorate the Bi-Centenary of the Discovery of Australia 1770-1970' - black, around inner rim
Back: Short history of James Cook's voyage to Australia.
History of HMB 'Endeavour'. Makers mark.