The firm now known as Carlton Ware originated in Stoke-on-Trent, England, in around 1890 when H.T. Robinson and J.F. Wiltshaw established a partnership, initially trading out of the Carlton Works. The venture, trading as Wiltshaw & Robinson, quickly grew into a highly successful pottery company characterized by a large and varied output. Early notable production included lustre ware, finely enamelled decorated china tableware, and a range of novelty items.
While the company had already established a reputation for quality, the 1920s and 1930s marked a creative zenith, particularly in the embrace of the burgeoning Art Deco movement. This period saw the company, which began operating as Carlton Ware in 1913, produce some of its most iconic and highly-collectible ceramic designs.
Focus on High-End Markets: Shapes and patterns were continually developed with the high-end market in mind, often featuring rich glazes and luxurious gilding to enhance their opulence and align with Art Deco's desire for elegance.
Embossed and Stylized Nature: A purposeful drive to include aspects of nature defined many of the key Art Deco ranges. The introduction of embossed floral ware in the 1920s was a crucial development. These weren't simply naturalistic reproductions, but rather stylized and geometric interpretations of nature—a key tenet of the Art Deco aesthetic. Designs often featured bold, simplified patterns depicting birds, insects, or exotic flowers (like the famous 'Rouge Royale' or 'Walking Ware' ranges), capturing the era's fascination with global travel and modern styling.
Advertising Novelties: The 1930s witnessed the innovative production of advertising novelties, demonstrating the company's versatility and commercial acumen. These items, often whimsical and distinctly styled, helped maintain the firm's visibility even through challenging economic times.
The partnership initially changed when H.T. Robinson left in around 1910, though the company continued to thrive under the Wiltshaw family. The Art Deco period cemented Carlton Ware's reputation for distinctive design and high-quality production, maintaining its success well into the post-war era. This prosperous run continued until the late 1960s when the company was ultimately taken over by Arthur Wood and Son.
Carlton Ware's enduring legacy is its bold, often quirky, and distinctly Art Deco period output, which remains highly sought after by collectors globally.
Wiltshaw & Robinson Ltd., Carlton Works, Stoke-on-Trent
The following Carlton Works agents were representing the Carlton pottery in 1939 according to a half page 'Carlton Ware' advert at the bottom of page 38 of The Pottery Gazette and Glass Trade Review Directory and Diary, 1939.
Messrs. F. R. Barlow & Sons (Pty.) Ltd., Commerce House, 328 Flinders Street, Melbourne, C.1.
Messrs. Ernest Frissen et Fils, 4/6 Rue D’Anderlecht, Brussels.
Messrs. Oakley Jackson & Farewell Ltd., No 2 Leader Lane (at 32 Wellington Street, E.) Toronto, 2.
Mr. F. J. C. Veerman, Prinsengracht 475, Amsterdam.
Mr. S. Prior, 9 Charterhouse Street, E.C.1.
Messrs. Aubrey Gualter & Co., P.O. Box No. 625, Wellington, C.1.
A. C. McIntosh Pty. Ltd., P. O. Box No. 3081, Johannesburg.
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