Rare Spode Indian Sporting Series 'Death of the Bear' Warming Dish c1815

A superb warming dish from Spode's Indian Sporting series depicting 'Death of the Bear'. Printed in medium blue showing hunters on horseback and on elephants with dogs, having chased a bear which they are killing with spears and gunshot. Based on Samuel Howitt's engravings from 'Indian Field Sports' published in 1807. The exotic border of tigers, bears and hogs reflects the themes of the series. Sections of the border have also been used to decorate the under sides of the dish too. The handle with the filling spout has part of a floral border print (possibly from the Italian pattern), as does the opposite handle which also has a moulded scallop shell which has been hand painted in cobalt blue. In remarkable condition; no chips, cracks or restoration and little signs of wear. Very rare to find, especially in such good order. A lovely rippled blue glaze and a single deep foot rim. Impressed 'SPODE' (with serifs on the letter S) and printed 'SPODE' and 'DEATH OF THE BEAR' in underglaze blue. Width with handles 28.55cm (11.25in)

A dinner plate in the same pattern is illustrated in Coysh 'Blue and White Transfer Ware 1780-1840' page 73.