A rare and highly desirable Clarice Cliff Spring Crocus Sugar Sifter in the rare Conical shape. These conical sifters are the 'holy grail' of Clarice collectors, and fewer are appearing in undamaged condition. Standing approximately 6 inches tall, this sifter is beautifully painted with bright clear Crocus flowers and as is usual for Spring Crocus pieces has much more depth and detail than the Autumn Crocus pattern. It is complete with the rare red tin-covered cork stopper which is tightly fitted in the hole.
This sifter dates from 1937 as it carries the black 'Clarice Cliff Newport Pottery Co England' and 'Made in England' backstamp. It is believed to be an early pre-war piece of Spring Crocus as it doesn't have the gold overprinted Wilkinsons backstamp as found on the later 1950's pieces.
In excellent condition with no chips, cracks, oxidisation or restoration, the sifter holes have no chipped glaze and the tip of the cone has no chips or grazes. There is one very small scratch to one of the crocus flowers as can be seen on the enlarged photograph, but this is only to be expected of a piece that is 70 years old.
Overall a wonderful piece to add to any Clarice Cliff or Art Deco collection, and as an investment piece its value is sure to increase faster than keeping the money in the bank!
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