Jackfield Ware is a striking form of black-glazed earthenware pottery that originated in the mid-18th century in Jackfield, Shropshire. While once thought to imitate Wedgwood’s basalt ware, Jackfield actually predates it and played a key role in the experimental development of black-glazed pottery in Britain. Characterised by its lustrous glaze, red or buff-coloured body, and occasional decorative gilding, Jackfield Ware remains highly collectible and historically significant. We take a look at this unique pottery along with a price guide of realised prices of some examples at auction.

The Origins of Jackfield Ware

Production of Jackfield Ware began around 1751 at Jackfield, where local clays and nearby coal mines provided ideal resources for ceramic innovation. Early pieces were influenced by Elers red stoneware and related to other contemporary wares, such as Whieldon’s high-fired red-bodied ceramics and Wedgwood’s green glazes. The glaze itself was achieved by firing cobalt at high temperatures until it turned deep blue-black, then allowing carbon-filled smoke from the kiln to enrich its sheen.

Materials and Glazing Techniques

Jackfield Ware is made from a brownish-red earthenware body, sometimes with stoneware-like density. Some bodies contained clay from coal mines, rich in coal dust, resulting in a heavy and highly polishable ceramic. The lustrous black glaze was created either with cobalt oxide or manganese-stained lead glazes. A later variation, known as Rockingham glaze, emerged in the 1790s and featured a deep purplish-brown bloom. Rockingham pieces often have moulded decoration and flatter globular shapes more typical of the late 18th century.

Decorative Styles and Common Forms

Many Jackfield pieces were decorated after firing using cold enamels or oil-based gilding. These were fragile and are now often found only in traces. Early Jackfield teapots and jugs were usually small (often under 5 inches), raised on three stubby feet, and had rounded handles with low-set spouts. Jugs featured pointed lips and simple pear shapes. Teapot finials were sometimes shaped like birds, adding to their charm. Later pieces, particularly those with Rockingham glaze, featured low-relief moulded bands and religious inscriptions influenced by John Wesley’s teachings.

Identifying Authentic Jackfield Ware

• Rich, glossy black glaze that may show shrinkage near the base
• Reddish earthenware body; yellowish buff or pale red denotes later production
• Occasional marbling resembling coarse agate
• Unglazed or clear-glazed bases are common
• Decorated in oil gilding or cold enamels—often faded or partially worn
• Three-footed forms typical of earlier Jackfield Ware
• Later Rockingham pieces have a purplish glaze and more elaborate shapes

Collecting Jackfield and Rockingham Ware

Collectors value Jackfield Ware for its distinctive black sheen and historic importance. Small teapots, inscribed jugs, and oil-gilded wares are particularly desirable. The contrast between early Jackfield and later Rockingham pieces adds depth to a collection. Museums such as the Fitzwilliam Museum hold fine examples, including a painted baluster jug from 1770, standing just over 7 inches tall.

Whether as a display piece or part of a focused ceramic collection, Jackfield Ware continues to captivate enthusiasts with its rich glaze, early industrial charm, and ties to Shropshire’s pottery heritage.

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