Teapot with lid

Object NameTeapot with lid

Datec. 1740

OriginEngland

MediumEarthenware

Dimensions***Ht 4 1/2" (11.4) Wt 7 1/2" (19.0) Di De Ht Di 2 3/4" (7.0)

ClassificationsDecorative Arts, Ceramics

Credit LineGift of Ann and Henry Brunnier. In the Ann and Henry Brunnier Collection, Brunnier Art Museum, University Museums, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa.

Object number2.8.5ab

Status

Not on view

Collections

Decorative Arts

CultureEnglish

Label TextCeramic wares made by combining differently colored clays or slips became known as agate ware, mimicking hardstone agate. In the former method, slabs of clay were usually pressed together then kneaded creating a variegated effect. This technique produced solid agate, in which the color combination extends throughout the body. Combining slips produced surface agate, an effect that was just beneath the glaze and only superficial. Thomas Astbury (1686-1743) and Thomas Whieldon (1719-1795) are credited for developing these techniques, but it was Whieldon who revolutionized eighteenth century Staffordshire pottery when he started a factory in 1740 at Fenton Low. Many successful potters launched their careers at Fenton Low, most notably Josiah Wedgwood, Whieldon’s partner from 1754 to 1759. Because Whieldon never marked his wares, it is difficult to attribute anything to him directly. This teapot is characteristic of the Whieldon style, exhibiting a complex clay body mixture delicately and thinly crafted. Each side is molded in the shape of a shell, a motif popularized during the Renaissance. The dragon spout and finial, featuring the guardian Foo dog, illustrate China’s enduring influence on eighteenth century Western ceramics. Label #2 Solid agate pectin shell teapot and cover in mottled brown, blue and ochre glazes. The effect of agateware was produced by kneading together clays of different colors and using a clear lead glaze. The influence of the Chinese is seen in the spout which is shaped like a dragon's head and in the "Dog of Foo" on top of the lid. The body is molded in the shape of two scallop shells and the handle has the appearance of a dolphin.Solid agate pectin shell teapot and cover in mottled brown, blue and ochre glazes. Of typical shape with lion finial, dolphin handle and dragon-head spout.

Locations