Joseph HOLDCROFT (act. 1870 - 1885). GARDEN of oblong shape in polychrome slip. The belly has a cobalt bottom, decorated with garlands of flowers held by flower buds and women's heads forming holds. The planter rests on four claw feet with palmettes. Mark "J.HOLDCROFT" in hollow on the reverse side. English work, late 19th century. Height 18.5 cm, Width 44, Depth 28 cm (chips and small splinters). Ancient origin: Château de Chicheray, near Vendôme. Bibliography: Sotheby's New-York sale, April 15, 2008, Catherine Downing collection, lot n°49 ($7,500), for a planter with an almost similar decoration. Joseph Holdcroft worked for 18 years at the Minton Earthenware Factory. In 1870 in Longton, he created his own factory, The Sutherland Pottery, specializing in shaped pieces in slip. After 1906, the earthenware factory is known as Holdcroft Ltd, it will close its doors in the 1920s. Joseph Holdcroft's production is inspired by his years with Minton but also by the influences of George Jones' rustic figures.