WCN Magazine Issue 8 Wedgwood

The Wedgwood tradition has always been embodied with experimentation, innovation and quality. Founded in 1759 by Josiah Wedgwood the company continues to be one of the worlds leading pottery brands, now incorporating other famous names such as Coalport and Masons Ironstone.

Born in 1730 in Burslem, Staffordshire, Josiah Wedgwood was the youngest of twelve children. He was born into the pot-making family of Thomas and Mary Wedgwood of the Churchyard Pottery, Burslem. He is often reffered to as the Father of English Potters due to his innovation and the impact he had on the pottery industry.

His delicate cream coloured earthenware, inspired by porcelain from China, was light but durable, with a clear and brilliant glaze. Queen Charlotte in 1765 ordered a teaset to be made of it, and by Royal Consent permitted her name to ever after be associated with it, Queen's Ware. This new creamware was so superior to all other earthenwares available it led to changes in the pottery industry all over Europe. Other innovations included Black Basalt used for relief plaques, busts, medallions and cameos, and the striking Jasperware (see picture right), for which Wedgwood is world famous, often adorned with Greek and Roman style bas-reliefs.

Josiah served his apprenticeship as a potter, and was taken into partnership in 1754 by Thomas Whieldon of Fenton, the greatest English potter of his time. Five years later, in 1759, Josiah set up in business on his own account. The Wedgwood tradition was continued by John Wedgwood introducing a version of the popular blue and white china being produced 'Bamboo' and the famed 'Blue Rose Border', the second Josiah Wedgwood, and into the early 20th Century with concepts such as the colourful Fairytale Lustre, and today with the current Lord Wedgwood of Baralaston.

As well as being a pioneer in the world of pottery, Josiah Wedgwood also held very strong beliefs and was an astute businessman. He was a supporter of the American War of Independence, and worked against the slave trade. As a businessman he was quick to realise items could be made to commemorate and show particular events. Jasperware proved very useful for this and Wedgwood and continue to make event pieces to this day. One famous earlier piece produced in 1787 was a medallion depicting an African slave, bearing the motto 'Am I not a man and a brother?'. Also pictured left is a Paul Revere plate celebrating the 200th Anniversary of American Independence.

For collectors Wedgwood offers a wealth of diversity and this has recently been increased with the start of a new Wedgwood International Society. The Society is initially available to UK residents with plans to expand to other countries. Members receive a free gift of a Pair of "Life and Works of Wedgwood" Miniature Plates (pictured right), a quarterly edition of the Etruria Magazine, as well as the opportunity to purchase members only pieces. Members also receive free admission to the Wedgwood Visitor Centre and Museum, plus VIP factory visits.

For more information please contact:
The Wedgwood International Society, Admail 981, Stoke-on-Trent, ST12 9JW.

The Official Wedgwood Web Site