A Spode teacup and saucer, circa 1805-10

A Spode teacup and saucer, circa 1805-10
The bute-shaped cup with a distinctive kicked handle, finely printed in black with an oval portrait of Nelson flanked by naval trophies, the saucer with the battle formation at Trafalgar, the two columns of the British fleet led by Nelson and Collingwood about to cut the Franco-Spanish line, with gilt rims, saucer 13.7cm diam (2)
Mastery of the bat printing technique, afforded by Spode's fine stipple engraving, shows the detail of the coastline and of each individual ship to great effect. Nelson's daring and unprecedented plan of attack is instantly recognisable from this birds-eye view. A similar cup and saucer is in the National Maritime Museum, no.AAA4965/6