Antique “The Florentine” semi-porcelain lidded vegetable tureen manufactured by the renowned Staffordshire pottery Johnson Brothers. The piece features an underglaze green transfer-printed design of delicate floral bouquets, swags, and scrollwork borders, complemented by molded foliate handles and a matching lid finial with subtle gilt highlights.

Condition Report & Markings

• Artist / Maker: Johnson Brothers, Staffordshire, England
• Period: Edwardian, circa 1900-1915
• Origin: England
• Material / Technique: Transfer-printed semi-porcelain with gilt accents
• Markings: Printed in green on the underside: "SEMI-PORCELAIN" above a crown, "JOHNSON BROS / ENGLAND"
• Decorative Details: Molded scroll handles and foliate finial, green floral transfer pattern with beaded and scrolled borders
• Colour & Surface: Cream-colored glaze with green transfer print, gilt highlights, and extensive overall crazing
• Condition: Significant crazing and staining/discoloration to the interior of the bowl and underside; light wear to the gilt highlights on handles and finial; no visible chips or cracks

History

Established in 1883 in Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent, Johnson Brothers became one of the most successful Staffordshire potteries, renowned for its durable 'semi-porcelain' tableware. This tureen represents the enduring popularity of green transferware in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, combining traditional English floral motifs with the practical durability of ironstone type bodies designed for both domestic and export markets.