An extremely rare late 18th century Derby porcelain plate hand painted with birds in landscapes around the rim, and to the centre with summer flowers  - all the work of William Billingsley.  Made as a replacement for a Chelsea red anchor period service.
Whilst William Billingsley is renowned for his beautiful flower painting, this is the only piece I have ever seen extensively decorated by him with birds.
Flat chip at rim, but does not detract from this fabulous plate.
Marked to the foot rim with Billingsley’s long tailed 7.
c1785-90.
Approx - 22cm diameter.