Mintons Indian Tree pattern 4994

[jes150]

In 1846, designer Henry Cole (the publisher of the first Christmas card), under the pseudonym of Felix Summerly, designed a tea service for Mintons which featured moulded Goats heads on handles, spouts and lids. Minton's continued to use the shape along with their standard patterns and this cup is an example of that. It probably dates around the 1860s.

[jes150]

Mintons version of the Indian Tree pattern - a very common design produced by many manufacturers...

[jes150]

...but the top of the handle is moulded with a goats head; the photos don't pick up the detail too well. A distinctive little detail, possibly specific to this factory.