Image Caption: Plate, Spode factory, 1809–20, Staffordshire, England. Earthenware. 1974.65 Gift of Loyd–Paxton

Since Josiah Spode (1733–97) popularized blue printed pottery in the late 1700s, it has had a universal and lasting appeal that still resonates today. This interactive exhibition is a comprehensive resource for the study of Spode printed designs and their sources, focusing on the blue printed patterns of Spode c. 1784–1833, Spode family history and business, and life in the Staffordshire Potteries of that period. 

The database allows users to search every known Spode pattern, many shapes and colored versions, and the source prints and original Chinese porcelain designs that served as inspiration. Of special note is an interactive version of Spode’s 1820 Shape Book. Visitors are able to virtually turn the pages of this rare document, of which only two copies are known.

The project was spearheaded by the Transferware Collectors Club in collaboration with Winterthur and The Potteries Museum & Art Gallery, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, England. It was funded by a generous donation from Klaus and Marcia Zeck and a research grant from the Transferware Collectors Club. Viewers are invited to submit new pattern versions and shapes to further enhance this groundbreaking exhibition. 

View the exhibition.