CHILDS RED TRANSFERWARE CUP COLLECTION ~ LITTLE MAE MAY

This is a fabulous set of three child's transferware toy cups and dolls mug, circa 1885. Each stands 2" tall. They were made by Charles Allerton & Sons, a pottery manufacturer in the Staffordshire region of England who was well known for his whimsical children's tea sets. The influence of the Aesthetic movement on the pattern designs captures the Victorian love of nature and the exotic. Each of the bowls was originally part of a complete miniature teaset depicting little Mae or May (possibly named for a granddaughter of Allerton) at different ages. The color of the cups is a rich cherry red or English pink.

The first cup depicts young Mae sitting on a stoop in a doorway with a kitten on her lap, a cat drinking milk from a bowl, a dog sitting beside her and a bird looking on from overhead. The second cup shows a slightly older Mae standing on a country road, with her house in the background. She is wearing a dress and an apron, and she is carrying eggs in her apron. The third cup features an older Mae, standing with her arms around a huge dog. In each scene, Mae is wearing a big hat. Each of these endearing scenes is framed by an aesthetic background of flowers, birds and lots of geometrical whimsies. The rims of the three cups are decorated with a different border trim. This threesome makes a wonderful set, showing the evolution of Mae and combining beautifully for a wall display.

The cups are all in great condition with no chips cracks or repairs. Each of the three contains stilt marks, minor kiln dust, insignificant transfer wrinkles, and/or glaze ponding, all original to the making and consistent with the typical quality of 19th century childrens' wares. Children's pink aesthetic transferware is hard to find and highly sought after, especially in this collection of whimsical patterns. These little cups will make a stunning collection unto themselves, or add them to any existing collection of toys and children's ware. As a gift-giving idea, any mother of a young daughter will love this series of images. And animal lovers all adore these patterns, too!

We have a large inventory of the 3 Little Mae or May patterns in various colors, and are happy to make other groupings or sets available for sale. Please send us an email before the auction ends with any questions or if you would like to see additional photos.

Thank you for bidding!