As a general rule late Victorian ceramics are at a low ebb, and teasets in particular. Bucking that trend was the extraordinary bid for this Wileman Shelley six-place tea set offered by Lockdales (19.5% buyer’s premium) Martlesham, near Ipswich on February 21.
Printed with the Dolly Varden pattern in pink to the well-known Alexandra shape c.1887, the 22 pieces were in good condition save a hairline to the jug and staining to some cups. Individual trios in this Aesthetic movement design bring some punchy sums on eBay. However, only the most committed of Shelley collectors could have expected it to hammer at £1600 (estimate £150-£200).