E.W. Wharfe “Duchess” Covered Cheese Dish | Late 19th Century English Semi-Porcelain Transferware

An elegant late 19th-century English covered cheese dish in the “Duchess” pattern by E.W. Wharfe, featuring blue floral transferware and graceful gold gilt. A timeless Victorian table treasure.

Description:
This exquisite covered cheese dish from E.W. Wharfe of England captures the grace and craftsmanship of the late Victorian dining table. The piece is rendered in semi-porcelain, decorated with a soft blue floral transfer pattern and delicate gilt flourishes that add a touch of quiet luxury.

The domed lid features a sculptural finial — a charming nod to the artistry of late 19th-century English tableware — while the scalloped underplate showcases intricate floral motifs and gold detailing. The overall design blends utility with beauty, reflecting an era when even the most practical serving pieces were crafted with elegance and care.

Though originally intended for cheese service, this piece now serves beautifully as a display accent or decorative keeper for trinkets, fruit, or even soaps in a refined bathroom vignette.

Why I Chose This Piece
I’m endlessly drawn to English transferware — especially pieces like this that balance function and beauty so effortlessly. The blue floral pattern feels timeless, and the touch of gold elevates it just enough. It’s one of those pieces that immediately adds depth and history to any space.

About this Piece
Maker: E.W. Wharfe & Co.
Pattern: Duchess
Origin: England
Date: Late 19th Century (Victorian Era)
Material: Semi-porcelain
Design: Blue floral transferware with gold gilt accents
Markings: “E.W. Wharfe Pottery England” and “Duchess Semi Porcelain” hallmark on underside
Condition: Very good antique condition with gentle wear to gilt and minor firing marks on inside of plate consistent with age; no chips or cracks

Ideas for Use
Serve cheese, butter, or pastries in true Victorian style
Display as a centerpiece on a hutch or sideboard
Use as a keepsake dome for soaps, florals, or small collectibles
Layer with other transferware for a beautiful English cottage look

Historical Note
Transferware became a hallmark of English pottery in the 18th and 19th centuries, allowing intricate designs to be printed and transferred to ceramics with remarkable precision. The “Duchess” pattern exemplifies this artistry — its blue floral motif and gilt embellishment reflect both the romanticism and refinement of the Victorian and Edwardian eras. Covered cheese dishes like this one were both practical and decorative, often gracing the finest tables.

A Note on Vintage
Vintage pieces often carry gentle signs of age that add to their story and character. Please review all photos closely to ensure this piece is the perfect fit for your collection.

Shipping & Packaging:
Your piece will be wrapped with care and shipped securely. I use recycled and eco-friendly packaging materials whenever possible to protect both your treasures and the planet.

Thank you for visiting Angela’s Finds and Faves — where every piece is chosen with a stylist’s eye and a passion for giving beautiful things a new chapter.