The Wedgwood story began in , when Josiah Wedgwood, aged just twenty-nine, started as an independent potter in Burslem, Staffordshire, England. He began to experiment avidly with clay, exploring its many possibilities. His pioneer spirit, his vigorous design policy, his commitment to exacting standards of quality and his efforts to create affordable luxury products remain the values at the heart of the brand today.
Did you know? From until his death in , Josiah Wedgwood actively participated in the Abolition of Slavery cause. Many common sales techniques such as direct mail, money-back guarantees, free delivery, celebrity endorsement, illustrated catalogues and buy one get one free came from Josiah Wedgwood.
Jasper, the most famous of Josiah's inventions, first appeared in after thousands of experiments. An unglazed vitreous fine stoneware, it was made in blue, green, lilac, yellow, black or white; sometimes one piece combined three or more of these colours. Upon these delicately coloured grounds would be applied the classical and contemporary reliefs which are still made today from moulds reproduced from the originals.
The iconic light blue jasper gave rise to the expression "Wedgwood Blue" and remains a recognizable Wedgwood signature worldwide. Wedgwood's enduring appeal among the world's Royal Families and Heads of State began with Queen Charlotte, who ordered a set of cream-colored earthernware that pleased her so much that Josiah Wedgwood was granted permission to style himself 'Potter to Her Majesty' and call his innovative cream ware 'Queen's Ware'. Since the time of Queen Charlotte, Wedgwood collections were to grace the tables of British monarchs and many other illustrious Heads of State, such as in the Vatican, the Kremlin and the White House.
It was also the brand of choice for some of the world's most prestigious hotels. During the s, Wedgwood's success continued and in order to increase efficiency, the fifth Josiah Wedgwood decided to build a new factory near the village of Barlaston.
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies. Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today. More about China Manufacturing Royal family. Already subscribed? Log in. Forgotten your password? Want an ad-free experience? View offers. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info. Were it not for a bout of smallpox the name of Josiah Wedgwood would have been lost in the mists of time.
The disease severely weakened his leg and he was unable to work the pedal of his potter's wheel. Faced with the loss of his livelihood the enterprising apprentice turned instead to designing ceramics. Josiah had a keen eye and an interest in the latest advances, such as new glazes. His designs were unlike the typical clunky wares on the market in the early 18th century and were soon gracing the homes of the aristocracy and royal palaces.
Quite simply Wedgwood is considered the finest potter to have lived and his name is famous far beyond these shores. However, his legacy is now under threat. Its future is in doubt following the failure of the Wedgwood brand in The only way of paying the portion of the debt owing is to sell the collection, including 8, pieces of pottery. If that happens on the open market it's almost certain the collection will be divided and shipped overseas. But a rescue plan has been hatched which involves the Art Fund saving all the works for the nation.
The charity, which safeguards Britain's artistic heritage, has offered to buy the collection.
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