Majolica (often confused with tin-enamelled Maiolica) is a scrumptious and affordable lead-glazed earthenware that took off in the mid-19th century and is still potted and prized in Europe and the US.

High-quality 19 century oil paintings star in this auction in West Cork.

Falls among blue chip banks pulled the FTSE 100 Index into negative territory today after warnings of a possible ratings downgrade for debt-laden Spain.

The threat of a ratings downgrade for Spain sent blue-chip banks lower today and dragged the FTSE 100 Index back from yesterday's two-and-a-half-year high.

The maker of Spode and Royal Worcester ceramics today said 2010 will be a record year for sales after a surge in demand from overseas buyers.