Wedgwood
Arguably the most celebrated of all English ceramics makers, Wedgwood was founded in 1759 by potter Josiah Wedgwood (1730–95) in Staffordshire, which was home at one time to hundreds of pottery workshops. The company is famed for its Jasperware — molded neoclassical stoneware vases, plates and other pieces inspired by ancient cameo glass, featuring white figures, scenes and decorative elements set in relief on a matte-colored background. The best-known background hue is light blue, but Wedgwood’s iconic silhouettes also appear on green, lilac, yellow, black and even white grounds. Some antique Wedgwood dinnerware pieces and other items feature three or more colors.
The Wedgwood firm first came to prominence for its tableware, which quickly gained favor in aristocratic households throughout Britain and Europe. In 1765, Wedgwood was commissioned to create a cream-colored earthenware service for Queen Charlotte, consort of King George III. The queen was so thrilled with her new china that Wedgwood was given permission to call himself “Potter to Her Majesty,” and the decorative style became known as Queen’s Ware.
Not to be outdone, Catherine the Great of Russia commissioned her own set of Wedgwood china in 1773. Nearly 200 years later, the firm created a 1,200-piece service for the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II. In recent years, leading designers including Jasper Conran and Vera Wang have collaborated with Wedgwood — in the tradition of such distinguished 18th-century artists such as the painter George Stubbs and metalsmith Matthew Boulton.
From plates and other dinnerware to decorative items like urns, cachepots and candlesticks, Wedgwood designs lend a traditional air to Anglophile interiors. And even if you have to make your own tea, you may find it comforting to sip it from a delicate cup that was manufactured in the same Stoke-on-Trent kiln that produced Her Majesty’s tea service. Be sure to keep your pinky raised.
Find antique Wedgwood pottery on 1stDibs.
| Average Sold Price |
| $1,421 |
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Wedgwood Dynasty Porcelain Plates, Set of 2
By Wedgwood
Located in New York, NY
A rare set of two (2) Wedgwood Dynasty collection porcelain bread plates, circa late-20th century, England. A beautiful set of Wedgwood 'Dynasty' collection porcelain bread plates, o...
Category
Late 20th Century English Wedgwood
Materials
Porcelain
English Wedgwood Jasperware Bowl Neoclassical
By Wedgwood
Located in New York, NY
A beautiful English Wedgwood Jasperware sage green and white matte stoneware bowl, in the Neoclassical design style, circa mid- to late 20th century, E...
Category
20th Century English Neoclassical Wedgwood
Materials
Ceramic, Pottery, Stoneware
Set 18 Wedgwood Creamware Dessert or Salad Dishes England, circa 1820
By Wedgwood
Located in Katonah, NY
Made in England in the early 19th century, circa 1815, these Wedgwood dessert or salad dishes are a beautiful and sophisticated set. The combination o...
Category
Early 19th Century English Neoclassical Antique Wedgwood
Materials
Creamware
Set Dozen Wedgwood Creamware Dinner Dishes Made England 1904
By Wedgwood
Located in Katonah, NY
Made in 1904, the border design on this set of Wedgwood dinner dishes was inspired by designs in Josiah Wedgwood's mid-18th century First Pattern Book.
The red berries and beige leaves on the vine combine perfectly with the creamy color of the creamware plate. The result is a subtle beauty.
The underside of the dishes has an impressed mark for Wedgwood and "W G" for August 1904.
Dimensions: diameter 9.25" x .75" height
Condition: Excellent
Price: $1120
Background of Early 20th Century Wedgwood:
In the late 19th century, Wedgwood designs were mostly influenced by the Aesthetic and Arts and Crafts movements. In 1904 Wedgwood promoted John Goodwin...
Category
Early 20th Century English Neoclassical Wedgwood
Materials
Creamware
Wedgwood Tri-Color Teapot
By Wedgwood
Located in New Orleans, LA
This charming Wedgwood teapot is crafted of tri-color jasperware, one of the firm’s rarest creations. The teapot’s classic form displays beautifully ap...
Category
19th Century Victorian Antique Wedgwood
Materials
Ceramic
Pair Wedgwood Egyptian Revival Black Basalt Sphinxes Made 18th Century, England
By Wedgwood
Located in Katonah, NY
These stunning Wedgwood black basalt sphinxes are a true masterpiece of Wedgwood craftsmanship and artistry. These mythical creatures are a sight to behold with their majestic woman's head, mighty lion's body, and elegant wings.
Each sphinx sits atop a raised rectangular base, adorned with a geometric design of circles and fleur-de-lis.
Each sphinx features a 'lotus flower' nozzle to hold candles, adding a touch of whimsy and charm.
Made in the eighteenth century, circa 1785, these sphinxes showcase Wedgwood's exceptional attention to detail and dedication to quality. The underside of each sphinx is marked with an impressed "Wedgwood" signature in lowercase letters. With a height of 10.2", a depth of 7", and a width of 3.6", these sphinxes are truly imposing in size and presence. In excellent condition, this pair is a rare and highly coveted find for collectors of Wedgwood black basalt.
Reference: "The Dictionary of Wedgwood" R Reilly and G Savage pg 323.
Dimensions: 10.2" height x 7" deep x 3.6" wide
Condition: Excellent with tiny edge chips invisibly restored
Price: $6,600
Background of Wedgwood black basalt:
In the mid-18th century, Josiah Wedgwood created black stoneware, which he named "Black Basalt," as it resembled Egyptian basalt...
Category
Late 18th Century English Egyptian Revival Antique Wedgwood
Materials
Stoneware
H 10.2 in W 3.6 in D 6.25 in
Wedgwood Fairyland Lustre Imps on Bridge Vase
By Wedgwood
Located in Chelmsford, Essex
Wedgwood Fairyland Lustre vase decorated in the Imps on a bridge pattern. This pattern features a line of imps crossing a bridge. A bird sits on the shoreline of a lake below the bri...
Category
1920s Vintage Wedgwood
Materials
Ceramic
19th Century Wedgwood Jasperware Dresser Box
By Wedgwood
Located in High Point, NC
Late 19th century Jasperware dresser box by Wedgwood. The blue color is lovely and gives off that bit of elegance in any room in which it is placed. Signed on base.
Category
19th Century English Victorian Antique Wedgwood
Materials
Ceramic
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Wedgwood furniture for sale on 1stDibs.
Wedgwood furniture are available for sale on 1stDibs. These distinctive items are frequently made of ceramic and are designed with extraordinary care. There are many options to choose from in our collection of Wedgwood furniture, although gray editions of this piece are particularly popular. Many of the original furniture by Wedgwood were created in the neoclassical style in europe during the 20th century. If you’re looking for additional options, many customers also consider furniture by Copeland, Josiah Wedgwood, and Chelsea Porcelain. Prices for Wedgwood furniture can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — on 1stDibs, these items begin at $65 and can go as high as $285,000, while a piece like these, on average, fetch $966.
Questions About Wedgwood
- Where is Wedgwood from?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Wedgwood is from Stoke-on-Trent, UK. Josiah Wedgwood founded it there in 1759. The company continues to produce its porcelain, china and other products at factories in the surrounding area. On 1stDibs, you can find a variety of Wedgwood decorative objects.
- Is there black Wedgwood?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Yes, there are black Wedgwood pieces. While Wedgwood china and porcelain is best known for its signature blue and white, some Wedgwood pieces are available in black and other colors as well. Shop a wide selection of Wedgwood collectibles on 1stDibs.
- What is the history of Wedgwood?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Wedgwood is a fine china and porcelain manufacturer. Established in 1759 by Josiah Wedgwood in England, Wedgwood is known for its unglazed stoneware that features contrasting colors. Find a variety of Wedgwood fine china from some of the world's top sellers on 1stDibs.
- What is the Wedgwood mark?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022Wedgwood marks changed many times from the manufacturer's founding in 1759 until today. Very early pieces often say "Wedgwood and Bentley," while most pieces made from 1769 to 1929 say "Wedgwood" in block letters. In 1929, the brand began to use a serif script. On 1stDibs, find a selection of expertly vetted Wedgwood.
- How do I date Wedgwood?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022To date Wedgwood, locate the potter's marks. Find the marks in an authoritative online reference to estimate the date. Because many replicas of authentic Wedgwood exist, consider using the services of a licensed appraiser for authentication. Shop a large collection of expertly vetted Wedgwood on 1stDibs.
- What is a Wedgwood plate?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022A Wedgwood plate is a flat round dish produced by Wedgwood, a manufacturer based in Stoke-on-Trent, UK, that opened in 1759. Depending on the design, the plates may function purely as decorative objects or be suitable for serving food. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of Wedgwood plates.
- Is Wedgwood valuable?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 16, 2024Whether Wedgwood is valuable varies. Some pieces may be worth only slightly more than the initial price paid for them, while others may have appreciated in value considerably due to their style, type, age and rarity. Some of the most highly sought-after types of Wedgwood include Queen's Ware, Jasperware, Black Basalt, Majolica and Fairyland Lustre pieces. The condition of a particular piece will also contribute to its value. To get an estimate of how much your Wedgwood is worth, consult a certified appraiser or knowledgeable dealer. On 1stDibs, explore a variety of Wedgwood pieces.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 21, 2024To tell how old your Wedgwood is, examine it for markings. Most Wedgwood pieces bear factory marks in an inconspicuous area, such as on the bottom or back. By comparing these markings to trusted online resources, you can usually get a rough idea of a piece’s age. For assistance with dating a particular piece, enlist the help of a certified appraiser or experienced dealer. On 1stDibs, find a wide range of Wedgwood pottery.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022The numbers on Wedgwood tell you which catalog edition first featured the piece. You can use the information to identify the style name and approximate date of Wedgwood. On 1stDibs, you can shop a variety of expertly vetted Wedgwood ceramics.
- What is Wedgwood Blue in Jasperware?2 Answers1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Blue Wedgwood Jasperware is a type of intricately detailed, matte pottery with an unglazed finish. Its pale blue color has been affectionately called ‘Wedgwood blue’. On 1stDibs, find a collection of authentic blue Wedgwood Jasperware from some of the world’s top sellers.1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Wedgwood blue is a distinct pale blue that’s commonly used in Jasperware. Jasperware is a type of pottery developed in England during the late 18th century by Josiah Wedgwood. Shop a collection of antique Jasperware from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Jasperware was first created by Josiah Wedgwood in the 1770s and can be described as stoneware that has a matte finish. It is from the Wedgwood company so the difference is that Wedgwood is a term used to describe the company and all products it produces, while Jasperware is a line of fine stoneware produced by the company. Shop a collection of Wedgwood Jasperware from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
- Is Wedgwood bone china?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Yes, Wedgwood is bone china. According to its website, bone china is considered one of the most refined and luxurious materials for table use, no matter what the meal or occasion. Wedgwood has a long history of high-quality and luxurious bone china. On 1stDibs, find a collection of authentic bone china pieces from some of the world’s top sellers.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Wedgwood blue is a color named after its appearance on jasperware pottery. It is a soft gray-ish toned blue. It would often be accented by white decoration on the pottery. Shop a range of Wedgwood blue jasperware from top sellers on 1stDibs.
- Is Wedgwood still being made?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022Yes, Wedgwood is still being made as of December 2021. The company produces fine china and porcelain decorative objects. Potter Josiah Wedgwood founded it on May 1, 1759, in Stoke-on-Trent, England. Today, the Finnish company Fiskars Group owns it. You'll find a collection of Wedgwood on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022To tell if Wedgwood is real, study the mark of the brand. Ensure that the name is spelled properly with just one "E" and that the letters and logo are crisp and clear. Also, examine the white accents on the piece. If they seem flat and painted on, they are likely fake, as they appear raised on genuine Wedgwood. You'll find a range of expertly vetted Wedgwood on 1stDibs.
- What is green Wedgwood called?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022Green Wedgwood is called jasperware. Josiah Wedgwood created the first jasperware pieces in 1775. In addition to green, the pottery comes in pale blue, dark blue, black, yellow and lavender colors. On 1stDibs, find a selection of jasperware decorative objects.
- What is black Wedgwood called?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Black Wedgwood pieces were also known as basaltes ware or black basaltes, manufactured by Josiah Wedgwood and named after the volcanic rock basalt. On 1stDibs, find a collection of Wedgwood Black Basalt pieces from some of the top sellers around the world.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022It depends. The majority of Wedgwood products are made in Indonesia, with select high-end products like hand-painted figurines and the brand’s iconic blue and white china still being made in the UK. You can find antique and contemporary Wedgwood pieces from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022To clean black basalt Wedgwood, dust it regularly with a soft, lint-free cloth. Over time, black basalt forms a beautiful natural patina on the surface, which can be lost when washed with water. On 1stDib, Shop a collection of black basalt Wedgwood pieces from top sellers on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Yes, Wedgwood does indeed still make Jasperware. SInce its inception in 1775, Josiah Wedgwood’s unglazed pottery has stood the test of time, and are still being produced at the Staffordshire factory with other Wedgwood wares. You’ll find a variety of Wedgwood products from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.