A Rare Chelsea Melon Tureen and Cover, Circa 1755

A rare Chelsea Melon Tureen and Cover, of the large size, the naturalistically lobed body modelled on its side and moulded in crisp low relief with the crackled skin, beautifully painted in tones of yellow, green and brown, applied with tendrils, leaves and flowers forming the handle.

Melon tureens are mentioned in the Chelsea 1755 catalogue; First Day’s Sale, Monday 10th March, p.4, lot 38: ‘Two fine melons for desart’. The tureens were copied from Meissen and were made in two sizes of which this is the largest.