A pair of Chamberlain Worcester Sir James Yeo Service Tureens c.1815

A pair of Chamberlain Worcester armorial dessert tureens and covers from the Admiral Yeo service c.1815-1820, each of twin-handled semi-reeded campana form on spreading foot, painted and enriched in gilding with the crest, motto and Badge of the Order of the Bath of Admiral Sir James Yeo, the borders richly painted in an Imari palette with flowering shrubs within oval cartouches reserved on royal blue ground gilt with stylised ornament, the gently domed cover with gilded pineapple finial and gilt highlighted acanthus leaf decoration within conforming border, puce script mark to underside of each cover, ‘Chamberlains Regent China Worcester & 155 New Bond Street London.

One of the most important Chamberlain armorial services was made for Sir James Yeo who had ordered a full breakfast, tea and dessert service in 1815. Like his famous predecessor, Admiral Nelson, Yeo chose a pattern from stock, in this case number 298 which had a richly gilded deep blue border with panels of Japan foliage. The painting of his crest and motto on every piece cost 10s. each time, and this accounted for a far greater amount than the cost of the porcelain and border decoration. The set was so lavish that it was not invoiced to Sir James’ estate until 1820, two years after he was killed on a journey home from Jamaica. John Sandon, ‘The Dictionary of Worcester Porcelain 1751-1851’For an account of the Admiral Yeo service See John Sandon, ‘The Dictionary of Worcester Porcelain, Volume One 1751-1851, page 373 including an identical tureen from the same service illustrated, and Geoffrey Godden ‘Chamberlain-Worcester Porcelain 1788-1852’ pp. 116-117 and colour plate XI

Condition: One of the lids has a few small chips on the inside rim. The other lid has signs of restoration to the edge of one side which is evident from the inside. Both tureens have some glaze crazing but still ring when tapped.