When we talk about 20th century ceramic artists, what do we mean? Here, we look at the work of some of the most celebrated ceramic artists of the last century, and the potteries they were associated with.
The 20th century saw a shift away from mass-produced factory pieces towards a rise in studio potteries. These studios saw individual ceramic artists come together to create pieces that bridged craft, design and fine art. Their prolific output during the 20th century can present challenges to today’s collectors, and it pays to recognise which artists shaped the era and to recognise their style and what to look for.
The rise of the studio pottery
Prior to the 20th century, porcelain was mass produced in factories such as Royal Worcester and Derby. But with the dawning of a new century came a new type of artist – the studio potter. Artists wanted to create pieces that showcased their craftsmanship, their vision, and their individuality, with Bernard Leach being widely acknowledged as the leading figure in this new movement. While earlier centuries often emphasised ornate, factory-produced porcelain, the 20th century ushered in the rise of the studio potter. Artists sought to express individual vision and craftsmanship, often hand-throwing each piece. Bernard Leach exemplified this shift and the work he produced out of Cornwall, is still sought after today.
British 20th century ceramic artists
Bernard Leach (1887-1979) – as mentioned above, Leach is considered the founding father of the studio pottery movement, having established himself in St. Ives after extensive travels in Japan. His credo saw the potter take a more holistic role in the creation of new pieces, taking responsibility for every step of the process. His robust stoneware marries Western techniques with Japanese aesthetics, producing simple and functional pieces.
Lucie Rie (1902-1995) – a refugée from Austria, Lucie Rie was the opposite of Bernard Leach, bringing with her a European flavour that translated into stylish trumpet bottles and footed bowls, without painted decoration. Her use of bright glazes was eye-catching and today, her sgraffito bowls command tens of thousands of pounds.
Katharine Pleydell-Bouverie (1895 -1985) – influenced by a year at Leach’s St. Ives pottery, aristocratic Pleydell-Bouverie is known for her use of ash glazes made from wood and vegetables and was keen to appeal to people’s curiosity for the natural world. A self-proclaimed ‘simple potter’, she once said, ‘I like a pot to be a pot, a vessel with a hole in it, made for a purpose’.
William Staite Murray (1881-1962) – an important name in 20th century studio pottery, Murray established his own studio shortly after the First World War. He preferred aesthetics over function, putting him in direct opposition to Leach and his followers and his eye-catching shapes, fired in a kiln he developed and designed himself, include flared bowls with prominent feet and tall tapering vases showing distinctive brush strokes.
John Maltby (1936-2020) – an apprentice of Leach, Maltby’s early pieces display a strong Anglo-Japanese theme, in the style of Leach. After Maltby established his own studio in the 1960s, his individual style was allowed to develop, and his work from this period was hugely influenced by his upbringing on the east coast – sea, fish, boats.
Identifying and valuing 20th century ceramics
For collectors of 20th century ceramics, identification is key. Where advice would normally suggest looking for signatures, stamps or makers’ marks, and these are indeed a starting point, it’s worth noting that many studio artists didn’t sign their work, particularly in their early career. In these instances, collectors should understand and have a knowledge of other important indicators, including form, glaze and technique. Our previous article How to identify 20th century ceramics: an antique dealer’s guide looks more closely at these areas.
As with any collectable or antique, condition is a major contributory factor in value. While age-related wear is acceptable (particularly in rare or sought after pieces), hairline cracks, chips, or restorations will reduce a piece’s value, even if it's by a notable artist.
Current market trends can be identified by researching auction records and artist retrospectives.
When estimating value, collectors must be aware of common forgeries and reproductions of popular artists like Lucie Rie, whose minimalist, wheel-thrown vessels are frequently copied.
Buy 20th century ceramics at Hemswell Antique Centres
The world of 20th century ceramics is diverse, dynamic, and full of hidden gems and at Hemswell Antique Centres we have a wide range of pieces from the last century. Our dealers have a deep understanding of key artists, movements, and style so a day trip to our centres will unearth pieces to suit every taste. With almost a thousand pieces of 20th century ceramics online, many of which can be posted for £15, you are guaranteed to find something to fall in love with, whether you prefer the earthy quietude of Bernard Leach or the explosive energy of a Lucie Rie glaze.
