Antique Ridways Simlay Floral Bowl, 18.5 cm | c. 1900

Some bowls have a little flower in the middle and call it a day. This one has planted the entire garden, added a vase and decorated the boundary fence. Restraint was evidently not invited to the design meeting. We cannot say we miss it.

This Ridways bowl in the Simlay pattern dates to around 1900. Pink, blue and yellow flowers mingle with green foliage on a creamy ground, surrounded by an intricate border and a gently shaped rim. In the centre, a decorative vase joins the floral gathering. Flowers holding more flowers: a perfectly sensible arrangement, if you ask us.

The backstamp names Simlay and Ridways, Stoke-on-Trent, England, giving this colourful little piece a link to its English maker and place of origin. Its circa-1900 date puts it at the turn of the twentieth century. We rather like bringing something from that moment into a modern dining room; it has already seen one century change its mind about the curtains.

At 18.5 cm across and 4 cm high, it is a shallow bowl with enough decoration to keep a dining-room dresser thoroughly entertained. Display it upright to enjoy the centre, or let it sit among a cheerful jumble of old crockery. Matching everything is optional. Having something you actually enjoy looking at is rather more important.

• Maker: Ridways
• Pattern: Simlay
• Origin: Stoke-on-Trent, England
• Date: circa 1900
• Diameter: 18.5 cm
• Height: 4 cm
• Weight: 145 g
• Multicoloured floral decoration with a central vase motif and shaped rim

An antique, pre-owned piece. Please inspect all six photographs for condition, surface details and the backstamp.

WARNING: This bowl may make your plain crockery feel it has seriously underprepared for the occasion. Maison de L'oro accepts no responsibility if you start describing a shelf full of mismatched floral bowls as “a carefully curated botanical installation.”