A rare and important WSPU Exhibition Suffragette tea service by H.M Williamson, Longton
designed by Sylvia Pankhurst, each piece initialled 'WSPU' with angel, accompanying banner and trumpet set against dark prison bars surrounded by thistle, shamrock, rose and dangling chains, the service comprising teapot and cover, cream jug, sugar bowl, three teacups (one chipped and cracked), six saucers and six plates, transfer-printed factory marks (19)

This design was created by Sylvia Pankhurst as a commission for a Suffragette Exhibition in 1909 before being sold in a fundraising event in sets of up to twenty-two pieces, with an original purchase price of 10s 6d per complete set. To find such a comprehensive service is exceptionally rare given that the majority of these sets have been split up and sold individually over the course of the last century.

Condition Report
The teapot has a small hairline to the inner rim. One teacup has a chip and three hairline cracks.

No further damages to any of the pieces, though there are rubbing/losses to the green handles of the teapot and cream jug and to the green finial of the teapot cover. 

There is no wear or damage to the insignia. Please see additional images.

Bidding indicates acceptance of the condition of the lot.  All lots are sold subject to general wear and tear commensurate with age and handling over time and only obvious faults will be mentioned after a visual inspection. If you have particular specialist questions on any lot, please state these before bidding since we cannot and will not provide a forensic examination of any lot but only a general condition report as a guide only. All condition reports given by Halls Holdings Ltd's representatives or agents are statements of opinion and not fact. If you require any further information about any lots in this auction or about bidding please do not hesitate to contact us again.