Antique 1825 Circus Plate, Billy Buttons Nursery Ware

If you are interested in early Circus related items, this little Georgian plate will be a must have for your collection.

This is an extremely rare item of nursery ware! This fabulous plate dates to circa 1825 and was made in Staffordshire, England. The plate features a monochrome transfer printed scene titled ‘Billy Buttons.’ This is an important piece of social history, a child’s plate that documents the history of the circus!

‘Billy Buttons Journey to Brentford ’is considered to be the first circus clown act, created by Philip Astley (b 1742 – d 1814) in England in 1768. Philip Astley was a celebrated English equestrian, circus owner, and inventor, regarded as being the ‘father of the modern circus.’

The act depicts an 18th century tale of a tailor, an inept equestrian, trying to ride a horse to Brentford to vote in an election. The act was so popular that it was performed into the 19th century, with adaptations such as ‘Joey Grimaldi's Trip to Brentford.’

This is an important documentary piece, a truly wonderful piece of social history. This is one of the most interesting plates we have handled. This item is perfect for anyone with a passion for the circus, arts, or social history! Absolutely ideal for a collector or rare ceramics.

Reference: Plate 634 in ‘Gifts For Good Children. The History Of Children’s China 1790 – 1890’ by Noel Riley.

The Story Of Circus – Victoria & Albert Museum

Father of the Modern Circus: 'Billy Buttons' (Philip Astley) - Steve Ward.

Measuring: Diameter 6 inch (15 cm).

Condition: Light surface wear commensurate with age. There are some rough areas to the rim where the glaze has not taken during manufacture.

Item id:16133