A TWO-and-a-half inch porcelain beaker found among a box of assorted ceramics sent for sale at Nantwich auctioneers Peter Wilson has sold for a staggering £37,000.

The beaker, decorated in underglaze blue with flowers and insects, was spotted by the auctioneer’s ceramics specialist, Chris Large, who identified the trident and crown trademark on its base as being an extremely rare and early example of soft-paste porcelain from the Chelsea factory, the first important porcelain manufacturers, founded in London in 1743.

It was purchased by a London dealer, one of six telephone bidders, after trade buyers and collectors, alerted to the appearance of the rarity by the auctioneers, swamped the firm with inquiries and commission bids.

“It was one of those wonderful career moments,” Chris said.

“I’m just pleased buyers proved my belief it was a rare piece of Chelsea to be correct.”

The Chelsea factory was founded by Charles Gouyn and silversmith Nicolas Sprimont but by the 1750s, Sprimont was the sole owner who designed elegant tableware for the aristocracy, based on silver prototypes.

The ultra rare blue trident and crown mark was used for only about two years from about 1748 to 1750. William Duesbury, owner of the Derby porcelain factory, purchased the Chelsea works in 1769, production continuing there during what collectors term the Chelsea-Derby period until 1784, after which it was demolished and moulds, patterns and many of its potters and painters removed to Derby.

Entries of good quality antiques, fine art, jewellery, silver, ceramics and collectors’ items are now invited for Peter Wilson’s next fine sale, which is on April 29 to 30.

The closing date for entries is March 20. For further information, please contact the auctioneers, telephone 01270 623878 or auctions@peterwilson.co.uk