Art Deco Potteries

Potteries:

Emerging from the Art Nouveau movement, Art Deco took hold in the 1920s and 1930s, characterized by its geometric forms and streamlined aesthetic. This era witnessed a surge in mass-produced goods that reflected the artistic styles of the time. Architecture, cinema, and music all bore the mark of Art Deco, and amidst the vibrant jazz scene, numerous Art Deco Potteries flourished, producing an extensive array of decorative ceramic pieces. This site delves into the rich ceramic legacy of this transformative period in history.

Stoke-on-Trent, located in Staffordshire, England, was a major center for Art Deco pottery production. Many of the most famous Art Deco potteries, such as Clarice Cliff, Denby, and Poole Pottery, were located in this region.

One lesser-known pottery that produced notable Art Deco ceramics was Ashtead Potters. Located in Ashtead, Surrey, England, Ashtead Potters was active from 1923 to 1935. The pottery was founded by Sir Lawrence Weaver, who was a strong advocate for the design and production of Art Deco pottery.

With interlocking shapes in pale colours.

Though difficult to set a particular start for this 'modern' trend as it became known, by around 1910 significant advances had been made by major contributors to the new crisp appearance of Art Deco. The numerous potteries around at the time embraced the style wholeheartedly.

Bird-shaped jug with stylised orange and yellow flowers.

Though the actual coining of the phrase Art Deco didn't happen until 1966 the consensus is that is derived from the Paris exhibition of 1925, L'exposition des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels. Like Nouveau, Art Deco has its roots in France.

Art Deco ceramics stood out for their bold geometric shapes, stylized patterns, and luxurious materials. Common motifs included stylized florals, sunbursts, and chevrons, often rendered in striking metallic glazes and vibrant hues. Designers embraced modern materials like Bakelite and chrome, incorporating them into ceramic pieces to create a sense of sleekness and modernity.

Potteries or trade names

The Art Deco potteries featured on this website may be referred to by their original names, brand names, or styles. In some instances, these brand names or styles have become synonymous with the pottery itself, gaining popularity among Art Deco ceramic enthusiasts.
To cater to the preferences of these enthusiasts, we've primarily employed terms that are widely recognized within the Art Deco ceramic community. We've also made an effort to identify and acknowledge instances where brand, style, or trade names have been used instead of the pottery's actual name during the Art Deco era. Wherever possible, dates and references have been included alongside these names to provide context and historical accuracy.

Help us with content

We are eager to improve and add to the content of the Art Deco Potteries website. If you would like to contribute then please email details to us. If you have a pottery item you'd like displayed on the website then please email details - we'll then reply so you can send in photos. Or please feel free to supply text for a new Art Deco pottery. Thank you.

Global Ceramic Restoration

GCR Services specialise in Art Deco ceramics restoration produced by the Art Deco potteries of the 1920s and 1930s. We would like to thank GCR for supplying some of the images and information that is contained within this website.

Art Deco Tours of London

Embark on an exhilarating London Art Deco Tour through the capital's vibrant streets with London Country Tours. Immerse yourself in the elegance of the era as you glide through the city in a chauffeured car, surrounded by captivating Art Deco architectural gems. As the afternoon sun casts its golden glow, indulge in a delightful afternoon tea at the Savoy, a timeless icon of Art Deco extravagance.

Art Deco For Sale

Check out the Art Deco for sale on the Vintage Arts website, which is a platform for collectors to sell art and antiques.