"Zoological Gardens"

Seen here is an 8 inch plate from the "Zoological Gardens" series by James and Ralph Clews (1813-1834). The series commemorates the opening of the London Zoological Gardens in 1828. Each size and shape shows a different scene. Many were copied from a book for children titled "Henry and Emma's Visit To The Zoological Gardens, In Regent's Park" by James Bishop, 1830 (see the source print, pictured below).

Children's patterns were often given as rewards for good behavior, christening presents and teaching tools. Children, in general, like animals, so this 5.75 inch plate with an exotic animal would have been a delightful gift.