1. A type of glazed earthenware or pottery with a white or cream-colored surface, developed in England in the late 18th century and often decorated with blue or other colors.
Usage: historical; ceramics/pottery term; also called pearlware pottery

Examples

• The museum's collection includes several pieces of English pearlware from the 1790s.
• Pearlware became popular among middle-class households as an affordable alternative to porcelain.
• The blue-and-white pearlware plate was decorated with a traditional willow pattern.
• Collectors often distinguish between pearlware and earlier creamware by examining the glaze.
• Many antique pearlware pieces feature hand-painted floral designs.