A museum-quality, investment-grade example of mid-19th-century English stoneware, this authentic Wedgwood black basalt bowl features the iconic, neoclassical "Dancing Hours" relief frieze. The deeply molded classical figures wrap seamlessly around the exterior, exhibiting magnificent crispness and three-dimensional detail.

1860 Mid-Victorian Provenance & Marks

The underside features definitive, rare physical evidence of authentic hand-craftsmanship at the historic Etruria works, precisely dating the vessel to the year 1860:

• Hand-Stamped Logo: The uppercase "WEDGWOOD" manufacturer mark is struck in a crisp serif font with the organic, slightly uneven alignment characteristic of 19th-century hand-impressed single slugs. It explicitly lacks the post-1891 "ENGLAND" text.

• Rare 1860 Year Code: The base features a prominent, standalone impressed letter "N". In the Wedgwood chronological matrix, "N" is the definitive year code for 1860—the inaugural year of the factory's letter-dating system.

• Artisan Tally Marks: Incised crescent-shaped "moustache" tool marks are visible beneath the logo, serving as the unique operational signatures of the individual 19th-century craftsmen who finished the piece.

Pristine Mint Condition

This exceptional piece is in pristine mint condition, remaining remarkably preserved for being over 165 years old. The matte black basalt body holds a beautiful, authentic historic patina with no cracks, scratches, stains, or professional repairs. Crucially, the highly vulnerable raised relief elements—including the microscopic fingers, outstretched toes, and delicate flowing garments of the classical maidens—are entirely free of chips, fleabites, or wear. The interior displays a rich, hydrated satin-charcoal luster with beautifully visible concentric throwing lines at the center basin.

Dimensions

• Diameter: 8 inches (20.3 cm)

• Height: 3.75 inches (9.5 cm)

A highly collectible, investment-grade centerpiece bowl that brings sophisticated historical texture to traditional, neoclassical, or modern eclectic spaces.