Antique American Porcelain Willets Belleek Tankard c. 1880’s-1909 Striking Willets Belleek tankard featuring gooseberries. It has a detailed handle and a decorative molded vine that is in relief on the bottom of the piece. Painted by the famous D’Arcy’s Decorating Studio, Kalamazoo MI; artist signed “Blake.” This studio was renowned for the fine art work it produced. It bears the Willets mark 2 as well as the D’Arcy’s decorating mark in red . Willets began producing Belleek wares around late 1884 or early 1885. During that period, they hired many artists, including Walter Lenox, to design for them. In less than ten years since they started making Belleek, Willets' American Belleek waspared favorably with industrial leaders in both America and Europe. After the industry as a whole began to decline due to many factors, Willets stopped its production in 1909. Purchased in January 2009 from Laurel Antiques of Maine. Receipt from that purchase provided in ment of item or upon inquiry. The vase is approximately 12” tall and 5.75” diameter at its base (the widest point). Condition: very fine, with no chips, hairlines or repairs and minor gilt wear.