In the 1760s, Josiah Wedgwood introduced his famous ‘creamware’ designed initially for Queen Charlotte, wife of George III. The designs, with their pure simplicity and classical form, took Georgian England by storm. Creamware, also known as pearlware or Leedsware, has never really gone out of fashion, but its manufacture has ebbed and flowed as the vicissitudes of 20th century global production wreaked havoc on the traditional English Potteries.
Reviving a collection of historically-inspired creamware, proudly made in the traditional potteries of Stoke-on-Trent, the home of the Wedgwood Museum, has been at the heart of the P&H mission since Bridie and Ben first revived the now iconic ‘Ionic’ candlestick twelve years ago. Over time we’ve introduced new vases and the loving cup, but we’ve always dreamed of a really wonderfully-scaled piece on display in the Museum.
In the 1990s this candlestick was briefly revived by our friend, lighting maestro Hector Finch, and Ben used it time and again in his early decoration projects. But sadly Hector’s maker stopped making the lamp bases some 15 years ago. One of the last of Hector’s lamps has been happily at home for 17 years at the Old Parsonage, and now in Orkney.
For a long time Ben produced a painted wooden version, for use in his decoration projects and for sale in the shop, but it never felt as good as the ceramic original, and 18 months ago we revived the conversations with our pottery about whether they could tackle such a monumental piece. We’ve been through countless rounds of sampling and production before they managed it, but at last – we are thrilled to announce our new Great Creamware Candlestick, available both for use with church candles, or as a lamp(coming very soon!). Used singly or as a pair, they make the most wonderful statement in your room – yet are imbued with the same subtle, authentic restraint as the original.
Made from Cornish clay in Stoke-on-Trent.
