This pretty little earthenware soup tureen dates from the 19th century, and is hand-painted in classic blue and white. Upon closer inspection, however, the decoration on both bowl and lid is rather outlandish and features, in addition to a number of traditional floral bouquets, some weird and wonderful characters – both human and a fantastical blend of human and bird. The tureen narrows to a circular pedestal base, ringed in blue, and the lid handle takes the form of a large and well-formed fruit, complete with stem. Two side handles complete the design.