The naturalistic decoration here with its vivid and finely executed detail has elements of the Art Nouveau style to it and this is consistent with the format of the mark. The Wedgwood factory needs little introduction. Founded by Josiah Wedgwood in 1769 in Stoke-on-Trent, England and named after the Italian Etruria region to reflect its neoclassical designs, it rapidly became famous for its stoneware designs in the classical style but ceramic tablewares were produced as well and this biscuit barrel is a good example of the high quality wares produced in the early twentieth century. The inclusion of ‘ENGLAND’ indicates a dating after 1891 and the addition of three stars occurs after 1900 suggesting that this piece was made in the early 1900s The rather grand design is in keeping with the opulence of the Edwardian era and survives in excellent condition with the brass metal fittings undamaged and intact.