Doulton Burslem Biscuit Barrel with Silver Plate Handle

Maker: Doulton Burslem

Period: Victorian/Edwardian era (circa 1890-1910)

Style: Biscuit barrel with silver-plated lid and handle

Height: 10 inches (including handle)

Decoration: Hand-painted floral sprays on cream ground

Condition: Mint Condition, no chips, cracks or repairs or crazing 

Features: Silver-plated fitted lid and swing handle

Victorian Elegance for the Tea Table

This exquisite Doulton Burslem biscuit barrel exemplifies the refined elegance of Victorian tea service accessories. Standing 10 inches tall with its graceful silver-plated swing handle, this impressive piece features delicate hand-painted floral decoration that showcases the artistry of Doulton's Burslem studio decorators.

Functional Luxury: Biscuit barrels were essential Victorian tea table accessories, designed to keep biscuits and cookies fresh while serving as beautiful centerpieces. The silver-plated lid with its swing handle allowed gracious serving while the ceramic body kept contents protected.

Hand-Painted Artistry: The delicate floral sprays featuring roses and various blooms in soft pinks, yellows, and greens demonstrate exceptional hand-painting skill. Each flower is individually rendered with fine detail, creating an artistic rather than mass-produced appearance.

Form and Shape: The elegant faceted body with its scalloped base creates visual interest and reflects light beautifully. The cream ground provides the perfect canvas for the colorful floral decoration while maintaining Victorian preferences for light, elegant pottery.

Silver Plate Distinction: The original silver-plated lid and handle add significant value and authenticity. The quality fittings with their reeded handle design indicate this was a premium piece, not an economy model.

Burslem Quality: Doulton Burslem specialized in fine decorative porcelain and tableware, representing the company's luxury production. This biscuit barrel exemplifies the studio's commitment to combining function with artistic beauty

Tea Table Tradition: Victorian tea service was an elaborate social ritual, and accessories like this biscuit barrel were displayed and used in the finest homes. The impressive 10-inch height ensured visibility and presence on the tea table.

Collector Appeal: Complete biscuit barrels with original silver-plated fittings are increasingly sought after. Many have been separated from their lids or have damaged handles, making complete examples like this particularly valuable.

Perfect For: Victorian tea service collectors, Doulton Burslem enthusiasts, functional antique collectors, elegant display pieces, or those seeking authentic Victorian table accessories.

Authenticated by William Cross, whose Charlton Standard Catalogue heritage encompasses all aspects of Doulton production including the fine decorative pieces from the Burslem studio.