A rare and highly collectable Walter Moorcroft True Miniature Baluster Vase in the Pansy pattern.
This vase is tiny. It measures a fraction over 2 inches (5.5cm) tall. The base carries the usual Moorcroft backstamp only found on Miniature pieces and this along with the pattern dates the vase to the early 1970's. There is a beautifully painted and tube-lined pink pansy flower surrounded by leaves on one side, a deep purple panys and leaves on the opposite side, both set on the classic Moorcroft Cobalt Blue ground. It is quite rare to find these miniature vases in the very popular Pansy pattern and most are found in the later hibiscus, anemone or orchid patterns.
These miniature pieces were originally produced as 'rep samples' which were much easier to carry around by the Moorcroft Rep than full size vases. They are now much sought after and 'pound per inch' command much higher prices than their larger brothers. The last photograph shows the vase against a UK 50p piece so you can see the size; the 50p piece isn't included!!
This vase is in lovely condition with no discernable chips, cracks or crazing to the glaze, however there is a small glaze 'pop' to the darker pansy side which would have occurred during firing. The price reflects this very minor flaw.