Pratt Ware, 1780-1840

Pratt Ware is a term used to describe English and Scottish relief decorated, underglaze colored earthenware pieces. The production of these pieces date from 1780-1840 and they were produced in a great variety of forms, from plaques to teapots, to figures and watch stands. The pieces are recognizable by their simple molding, cream or pearlware ground and the application of bright colors. Many pieces are stamped with the potters name or logo, but just as many are not marked. The term Pratt Ware is one that has been around for over one hundred years and is based on the surviving production in this style by the Pratt family of potters working in Fenton, Stoke-on-Trent. Yet there is much evidence that there were other potters producing similar wares at around the same time. Irrespective of the accuracy of the term, what cannot be denied is the naïve charm of these pieces and their place in the history of English ceramic production.

Teapot, 1790-1800. Lead-glazed earthenware painted in high temperature underglaze colors and moulded. Impressed: BARKER. Victoria and Albert Museum, London, England.

Seated figure of a woman (one of a pair), 1800-1830. Lead-glazed earthenware painted in high temperature underglaze colors. Unmarked. Victoria and Albert Museum, London, England.

Jug and cover in the form of a cow, ca. 1820, possibly Newcastle, England. Victoria and Albert Museum, London, England

Jug, Britannia and on reverse Sailor's Return. 1790-1800. Maker: William Pratt. Victoria and Albert Museum, London, England

Blue and White ceramics

Blue and White Ceramics

A regular visitor to Auctions and Antiques shows cannot fail to notice the vast quantity of blue and white ceramics available. The prevalence of these ceramics reflects the impact of global trade during the 19th century. The Portuguese are credited with bringing the first blue and white ceramics from China to Europe through trade. The porcelain figure below is a depiction of a European, note the drinking glass.                     

By the early 18th century Chinese ceramics were being imported into Europe. The Dutch East India Company imported porcelains into Holland and the local manufacturers of Delft were quick to imitate these wares. Wealthy Dutch merchants began to collect Chinese blue and white ceramics, both serving as decorative objects and evidence of status. The flower pyramid, attributed to De Metaale Pot, Delft, Netherlands is tin-glazed earthenware and in the collection of the Rijksmuseum.                                                                                        

English ceramic firms in Staffordshire were quick to see the commercial opportunities in blue and white transfer decorated ceramics for the increasingly wealthy middle class at home and abroad. The American market was an important and profitable market for Staffordshire blue and white ceramics.Today there are numerous collectors clubs and societies for blue and white ware in America and worldwide, indicating the continued interest in these ceramics.

Figure, 1680-1700, Jingdezhen, China, Porcelain, Victoria & Albert Museum, London.

Flower pyramid, 1692-1700, Delft, Netherlands, Tin-glazed earthenware, Rijksmuseum, Netherlands.

Plate of lead-glazed earthenware, transfer-printed in underglaze blue. ca.1820-1830, Staffordshire, England. Victoria & Albert Museum. London.