Description
Aynsley Seville Pattern 7462 Lunch Plate in Raised Gold & Cobalt Blue
This elegant 9.125-inch (23 cm approximately) lunch plate showcases one of Aynsley’s most richly decorated cobalt blue tableware patterns. Finished with luxurious raised gold griffins, scrolling foliage, and delicate gilt detailing, Pattern 7462 belongs to the celebrated Seville family of designs, admired for its striking balance of classical ornament and English refinement.
Whether displayed in a cabinet or incorporated into a formal table setting, the plate immediately commands attention through its deep cobalt ground and richly textured gilding.
The Seville Pattern
Among collectors of vintage English bone china, Aynsley Seville remains one of Aynsley’s most recognizable decorative patterns. Produced in several closely related pattern variations, each version shares the same dramatic cobalt blue border while differing slightly in ornamental details and factory pattern numbers.
Pattern 7462 represents one of these less frequently encountered variations, making it especially appealing to collectors who appreciate documenting the evolution of Aynsley’s production.
The elaborate border combines classical scrollwork with heraldic griffins—mythical guardians traditionally symbolizing strength, wisdom, and nobility. Together they create a design that feels equally appropriate in traditional English interiors and modern decorative collections.
Raised Gold Craftsmanship
One of the defining characteristics of this plate is its impressive raised gold decoration. Rather than relying on printed ornament, Aynsley built the design using hand-applied gilt that stands slightly proud of the porcelain surface. Under changing light, the relief catches reflections that give the border remarkable depth and dimension.
Combined with the rich cobalt glaze and fine bone china body, the effect is both elegant and unmistakably luxurious—qualities that helped establish Aynsley as one of England’s leading porcelain manufacturers.
A Plate That Appeals to Several Types of Collectors
Collectors often seek pieces like this for different reasons. Some are building complete Aynsley Seville dinner services, while others search for individual replacement plates to complete inherited sets. Interior designers frequently use richly decorated English porcelain as cabinet display pieces, and collectors of heraldic decoration are naturally drawn to the striking griffin motif.
Because Pattern 7462 appears less frequently than some Seville variations, individual pieces can also appeal to specialists who enjoy collecting different production versions of the same pattern.
Why This Example Stands Out
This plate offers several qualities collectors appreciate:
- Original Aynsley backstamp with Pattern No. 7462
- Rich cobalt blue border with raised gold griffins
- Fine English bone china
- Elegant 9.125-inch lunch plate size
- Excellent vintage condition with no chips, cracks, or repairs
- From the Bernardi Family Collection
Its combination of condition, decorative quality, and identifiable pattern number makes it an attractive example for both collectors and decorators.
The Legacy of Aynsley
Founded in Staffordshire in 1775, Aynsley became internationally respected for producing fine bone china that combined technical excellence with sophisticated decorative design. Patterns such as Aynsley Seville reflect the company’s ability to reinterpret traditional European ornament through vibrant color, exceptional gilding, and meticulous craftsmanship. Today, Aynsley remains one of the most collected names in English porcelain, with many discontinued patterns becoming increasingly difficult to locate in matching condition.
Provenance
This plate comes from the Bernardi Family Collection, assembled over many years through careful acquisition of quality European decorative arts. Pieces from the collection were chosen for their craftsmanship, historical significance, and enduring design, reflecting a longstanding appreciation for fine porcelain and antique tableware.
