When these designs were first produced in the 19th century, exotic animals were curiosities and were not well known: The Rhinoceros House, The Kangaroo Enclosure, The Camel, The Tiger Cages, The Zebra Pen, and The Ostrich House.

Josiah Spode's reputation was initially secured in the 18th century by the perfection of underglaze printing on earthenware from hand-engraved copper plates. These designs have now become some of the most collectible and sought after in the history of ceramics.