Object of the Day: An Allerton & Sons, “Punch” Plate, 1880

A pottery manufacturer in the Staffordshire region of England in the late Nineteenth Century, Charles Allerton & Sons became famous for their series of children’s tea sets which were often sold at country fairs. The most popular of their designs featured a whimsical scene of Mr. Punch, Judy and their child accompanied by a cheerful, pipe-smoking frog. The sets included plates, cups, saucers, teapot, sugar bowls and creamers. The pattern was produced in blue, cranberry, green and brown.


This dish comes from a set of blue Punch-ware by Allerton & Sons and dates from the 1880’s. The transfer-ware dish is as bright and crisps as it was over a century ago. On the reverse, the dish is marked, “Allerton, England” and, as was the tradition, is marked with the pattern name, “Punch.” I was so pleased to be given this rare find recently. Allerton & Sons Punch sets are difficult to find in good condition. This one was found in the collection of Nancy Barshter at ChildhoodAntiques.com who offers a wide assortment of antique transfer-ware and pottery which remind us of happier, simpler times.