^Lot 286 Moorcroft Earthenware Vase by Paul Hilditch, Launching Liberty Ship

This Moorcroft earthenware vase features the Launching Liberty Ship pattern designed by Paul Hilditch. The piece is decorated using the factory signature tubelining technique, where raised outlines of slip are applied to the surface to create cells for the colored glazes. The form consists of a squat, bulbous body that tapers into a tall, slender neck with a slightly flared rim. The continuous decorative scene depicts multiple-masted sailing ships with tan sails navigating tumultuous, stylized waves. The color palette utilizes deep cobalt blues, teals, and greens for the water, contrasted with cream and reddish-brown tones for the vessels. The upper neck transitions into a deep cobalt blue gradient at the rim. The base of the vase bears the stamped blue marks MOORCROFT, STOKE-ON-TRENT, ENGLAND. It is hand-signed in green script Paul Hilditch and includes hand-painted marks 159, D 20.5, JYD, and a stylized S symbol. An impressed balance scale year cipher is also present on the underside.

Dimensions: 7.75"L x 7.75"W x 11.50"H
Condition: Good