The word “Wedgewood” brings to mind quality and class. The fine accessories manufacturer was established in 1759 by Josiah Wedgewood and it quickly became the most successful companies in Europe. The company became renowned for its quality stoneware and earthenware; the quality was considered almost equivalent to porcelain, but in a much affordable price bracket. The most popular pieces could be considered Wedgwood Jasperware. These pieces had a unique dull matte finish with contrasting lighter designs.
A little history.
The very first designs were released in the early-1770s and quickly became very popular with the masses. Other potters started copying the designs and Wedgewood fakes became popular with the masses as well. However, the initial Wedgewood designs were in the Neoclassical style. The pots usually had relief images that were made in molds and applied to the pottery in the form of sprigs. These relief patterns usually involved portraits of important personalities, but sceneries and garden images were popular well. The company initially started producing a variety of decorative items for daily wear. However, with time, the company diversified into tea ware that was glazed on the inside and tableware designed for serving.
Typical composition and designs.
The company jealously guards its formulation for the beautiful “Wedgewood” blue, however, barium sulphate is supposed to the primary ingredient. Over time, the company also diversified into pale blue, dark blue, light green, lilac, blue and yellow. This combination of colors changed over time and signature limited-edition pieces were released to the market.
However, yellow was rarely used in Wedgewood ware and very pieces were made that included the traditional blue and other tints. Wedgewood also commissioned several artists to create unique wall plaques for decorative uses. For example, artists George Stubbs and William Wood created several signature pieces for celebrity clients like Lady Diana Beauclerk and Lady Templeton. The most popular pieces were made by John Flaxman Jr. who created wax casts so that his pieces could be mass-made. In fact, some of his designs are still in production. Wedgwood Jasperware also borrowed inspiration from antique cameo glass patterns, classical paintings and sculpture.
Recognizing Wedgewood
The classical blue and white pottery is easy to recognize. Apart from the colors, the pottery will also be signed or stamped with the WEDGEWOOD seal. In some pieces, a three-letter seal with the date and time will also be present. In later pieces, WEDGEWOOD MADE IN ENGLAND is usually found as a complete stamp.
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