Transfer printing is a less expensive form of decoration than hand-painting and has been widely used in mass-produced ceramics since the late 18th century. The designs are engraved on copper plate, then printed with ceramic inks on to sheets of special paper. These can then be applied to biscuit fired pottery. When wetted the ink is transferred to the piece and the paper can be peeled off. A transparent glaze is then applied before the final firing.
White earthenware with transfer printed decoration of romantic scenes. This low wide shape is characteristic of the early 19th century. The piece is unmarked but was probably made in Staffordshire, the major centre for mass produced ceramics in Britain.