A beautiful and very elegant 18th century Derby plate, decorated in pattern 18 and "signed" by foremost Derby artist, William Billingsley.
In the 18th and early 19th century, it was not permitted by porcelain factories for artists to actually sign their work.  However, William Billingsley was allocated gilder's number 7 at the Derby factory and he often placed it at the footrim to denote that he had decorated a piece.  Known as his "long tailed 7."  This is one such piece and a relatively rare find!
In fine condition, no chips, cracks, hairlines or restoration, just some wear to the gilding.
Marked with the factory mark in puce, pattern number N18, gilder's number 2 for Joseph Stables (all in puce) and with William Billingsley's long tailed 7 in red.
Approximately 8 inches diameter.