The owner of four plates, hung on a living room wall in West Sussex, is set for a peachy result after they turned out to be highly sought-after pieces by Royal Worcester.
The quartet of realistically painted apples, pears, plums and peaches, all date to the factory’s ‘golden age’ of the mid 20th century.
And with two expected to make up to £400 when they go under the hammer on May 15, they could net their owner a fruitful return.
Hansons Auctioneers’ owner, Charles Hanson, said: “The plates belonged to the vendor’s aunt in West Sussex.
“Exquisite plates like these are sought after around the world with demand particularly strong in America and Australia.”
All four are the work of Royal Worcester painter Harry Ayrton (1905-1976) who joined Royal Worcester aged 15 as an apprentice.
He was to spend the next 50 years with the company perfecting his craft and earning a reputation as one of its best decorators.
Charles continued: “Harry was among the ‘dream team’ of Worcester painters from the early decades of the 20th century. He was especially known for his painted fruit studies often against a mossy background with attractive gilded edges. His work remains among the most desirable Royal Worcester pieces.”
During his time at the factory Ayrton would have rubbed shoulders with other Worcester greats, including Richard Sebright (1870-1959) and Harry Davis (1885-1970) as well as Kitty Blake (1905-1953), renowned for her depiction of blackberries.
Charles explained the plates’ luminous quality.
He said: “Translucent layers allowed light to pass through the pigments, creating a remarkable depth. Final touches, including the use of 22ct gold, were added by master gilders and burnishers, ensuring every plate met the highest standards.”
Royal Worcester has one of the longest histories of all UK ceramics makers, starting in 1751 with founders Dr John Wall and William Davis who were determined to unlock the secret recipe of imported Chinese porcelain.
The factory quickly became known for its high-quality ‘soft-paste’ porcelain and distinctive blue-and-white designs inspired by Asian ceramics.
By the late 18th century, it was one of England’s leading porcelain manufacturers.
Royal Worcester reached its ‘golden age’ between 1860–1940 when it was known for its highly detailed hand-painted scenes which appealed to the newly affluent Victorian and Edwardian market.
Hansons Auctioneers offers free weekly ceramics valuations at its Etwall saleroom every Tuesday from 10am-2pm.
Charles continued: “If you want to know the history of a piece, or its value, our friendly and knowledgeable team is here to help.”
Auction Details
Auction: Derby May Four-Day Antiques & Collectors Auction: including Silver, Jewellery & Watches
Auction date: 15th May 2026 | 10am
Location: Hansons’ Derbyshire Saleroom
Auction contact: [email protected]
Catalogue/bidding: www.hansonslive.co.uk | www.the-saleroom.com
