Hand-painted Flight & Barr Dragon Plates c. 1792-1807

In 1783, Thomas Flight purchased a porcelain factory in Worcester for his two sons, John and Joseph Flight. After a slow and rather challenging start, the fortunes of the factory began to change thanks to a visit from King George III and Queen Charlotte in 1788, who ordered a breakfast service in a pattern called Royal Lily.

Following the Kings suggestion, the Flights opened a shop in London at No.1 Coventry Street. The following year, George III gave Flight his Royal Warrant, allowing them to use the Royal Coat of Arms and the words ‘Manufacturers to their Majesties’. Following the death of John Flight in 1791, Joseph Flight took Martin Barr into partnership. 

This fine pair of Flight & Barr Royal Porcelain Works plates feature hand-painted dragons with five claws on each foot, inspired by the Chinese export porcelain that was much admired during this time. Each plate has an incised B, noting the period from 1792-1807, when the mark was used. The plates measure 8 1/4 inches in diameter.

Condition notes: minor paint loss and wear, one with hairline crack visible verso, the other with flake chips verso (possibly original).