Antique EJDB Bodley Demi Teacup, FERN Demitasse Cup & Saucer 18456

This exceptionally rare antique English demi teacup and saucer set was produced by renowned porcelain maker Edwin James Drew Bodley between 1875 and 1892, at his Crown Works factory in Burslem. The cup features an exquisite fern motif, incorporating Oriental-style floral influences, and belongs to the highly collectible Aesthetic style. The petite demi cup format, originally intended for half-cup / espresso servings, offers both practical function and display appeal, representing the finest English fine porcelain craftsmanship of the Victorian era. Whether used for enjoying espresso or displayed in a collector's cabinet, this set reflects exceptional taste and collecting sophistication.

Historical Background

Edwin James Drew Bodley took over the china works (later known as Crown Works) at Samuel Alcock's Old Hill Pottery in Burslem in 1867. The pottery had been divided into separate china and earthenware factories that year. The china works was first taken over by Bodley & Diggory, then by Bodley & Son, until Edwin J. D. Bodley began business under his own name in June 1875. Bodley produced fine quality porcelains with Oriental-style flowers. Cups and saucers in the Aesthetic style are highly regarded by collectors.

— Source: Collectible Cups & Saucers by Jim & Susan Harran

Product Specifications

• Maker: Edwin James Drew Bodley (EJDB)

• Country of Origin: Burslem, Staffordshire, England

• Factory: Crown Works (formerly Samuel Alcock's Old Hill Pottery)

• Production Period: 1875–1892

• Material: Fine Porcelain

• Style: Aesthetic Style with Oriental floral influence

• Design: FERN motif

• Cup Type: Demitasse (half cup / espresso cup)

• Saucer Diameter: Approx. 5 inches (approx. 12.7 cm)

• Cup Height: Approx. 2.5 inches (approx. 6.4 cm)

• Set Type: Cup + Saucer

Condition

• Good antique condition

• Firing dots on cup's interior walls (normal production mark from firing process)

• Significant wear to gilt rims

• No chips, cracks, nicks, crazing, distracting scratches, or repairs

• Very sweet condition overall

Suitable For

• Espresso serving

• Antique porcelain collecting and display

• Victorian-style home décor

• English ceramic history study

• Gifting for serious porcelain collectors

Why Choose This Set?
✔ Rare authentic antique English EJDB Bodley piece
✔ Well-documented production period (1875–1892)
✔ Aesthetic style – highly regarded by collectors
✔ Exquisite fern motif with Oriental floral influence
✔ No chips, cracks, or repairs – sweet, honest condition
✔ Documented in authoritative ceramic collecting reference