Emma Bridgewater Ceramics

Emma Bridgewater’s pottery is instantly recognizable, with its Moles porcelain pattern seen in many kitchens. His black toast pattern, hand-drawn lettering on cream-colored earthenware, which was designed by her husband, Matthew Rice, is a classic design and is often copied. Emma first appeared on the scene in her sponge design in the 1980s and they are still hugely popular.

Emma had an early interest in porcelain and used to buy small pieces at the local markets. Looking for a birthday present for her mother and wanting to buy her a cup and saucer, she Emma couldn’t find anything she liked and she realized there was a gap in the market for contemporary china. She launched her first collection in 1985, a variety of hand-fluffed patterns on various pieces of porcelain. Emma initially established brixton sponge with Alex Dufort, where he learned all aspects of ceramic production. As demand grew, he realized that he would have to find a factory that would produce porcelain to his designs.

One of his early pieces, a half-pint mug, inspired by 18th-century cream tableware, remains popular today. The china was made in Stoke on Trent and then decorated by Emma, ​​using an ancient method of applying patterns with a natural sponge. She initially tried to sell the pieces at Covent Garden Market, which was not very successful and then an antiques dealer suggested that she try a trade show.

Early Bridgewater pieces include chintz, a classic floral, Coral, a traditional all-over print, Fish and grass, dotted, quail and Yard, rows of birds and animals surround the wear between fine green bands. Emma Bridgewater’s china sells very well at auction.

Emma was soon commissioned to do special orders for stores like Harvey Nichols and the General Trading Company. The Royal Academy and the National Trust also sold exclusive patterns. Home magazines were eager to use Emma’s china in their bedroom sets and her popularity skyrocketed.

In 1987, Emma designed her most popular pattern, figs, fluffed up in purple and green and said to be inspired by a tree in a walled garden in Norfolk. In 1990, Emma opened her flagship store in Fulham, West London. Although this is the center of the business, the ceramics are made in a large Victorian factory in Stoke on Trent, which she acquired in 1996.

black Toast, originally called toast and jam, It was released in 1992 and continues to be a bestseller. The range changes regularly, which is great for collectors, especially if you can get hold of the first plates that say Toasts and Jam.

Chickens appear frequently in her designs, apparently due to the fact that her husband Matthew has had chickens since he was a child. Birds often feature in the designs and have been very popular. They do special deals for the US market.red cardinal and blue jay and new designs are eagerly awaited.

Bridgewater’s current designs are a mix of contemporary, vintage and children’s patterns and you’ll find Emma’s pottery in most department stores and some gift shops. Emma has a very hands on approach and still cuts sponges for new designs and keeps her ear to the ground and provides what clients want from her. figs going to be reissued by popular demand and the new dinosaur pattern,pottersaurus, It is very popular with children.