Artist/Maker
James and Ralph Clews
(active 1813-1834)
Plate: Doctor Syntax disputing his bill w/landlady
1815-1840
Place madeEngland, Europe
Earthenware
Overall: 3/4 x 10 in. ( 1.9 x 25.4 cm )
The Dr. Arthur H. Merritt Collection
1961.379
Doctor Syntax was a popular cartoon character who first appeared in English magazines in 1809; this plate is part of this series.
DescriptionDark blue transfer printed pearlware tea plate with central image depicting Dr. Syntax holding a bill to a woman; in the foreground, a dog and cat who growl and hiss at each other; the border pattern is scrolls and flowers.Markingsimpressed: on back: medallion with crwon at center and "CLEWS WARRANTED STAFFORDSHIRE" inscribed
printed: on back: embellished rectangle with "Doctor Syntax/disputing his/Bill with the/Landlady inscribed"
ClassificationsCERAMICS