Wedgwood

Josiah Wedgwood, a prominent figure in the history of pottery, left a lasting legacy with the foundation of Wedgwood in 1759. His innovative designs and commitment to quality have continued to influence the industry for over 260 years.

Wedgwood, an English fine china, porcelain, and luxury accessories manufacturer, was founded on 1 May 1759 by potter and entrepreneur Josiah Wedgwood. It became one of the largest manufacturers of Staffordshire pottery and was known for its high-quality products exported across Europe and the Americas.

In 1761, Wedgwood started using transfer printing, a technique that allowed printed designs in a single color, making the products more affordable than hand-painted ones. This method was later combined with hand-painting for intricate designs.

In 1762, Wedgwood presented his creamware to Queen Charlotte, which he later patented. This event marked the beginning of his successful career as a potter to the royal family.

In 1765, Josiah Wedgwood and his sons conducted trials of Queen's ware in Stoke-on-Trent, England. This marked an important development in the history of ceramics.

After Queen Charlotte of England requested a creamware tea and coffee service, Josiah Wedgwood took the opportunity to request permission to style himself “Potter to Her Majesty”. His request was granted, and his creamware was subsequently referred to as “Queen’s Ware”.

After Josiah Wedgwood supplied Queen Charlotte with a teaset for twelve, she officially allowed it to be called 'Queen's Ware' in 1767. This recognition boosted the reputation and sales of Wedgwood's ceramic products.

In 1768, Wedgwood developed Black Basalt, a fine black porcelain that allowed him to replicate Etruscan pottery from Italy. This innovation was a commercial success due to its lustrous and smooth surface with a purple-black sheen.

On June 13, 1769, Josiah Wedgwood opened the Etruria factory in Staffordshire, England. This marked a significant milestone in the history of ceramics.

In 1770, Josiah Wedgwood introduced Jasper Ware, an unglazed stoneware known for its durability and delicate design. It revolutionized the ceramics industry and is considered one of the most important inventions since the discovery of porcelain.

Josiah Wedgwood invented Jasperware, a revolutionary type of stoneware that could be produced in a wide range of fashionable colors. It became a visual marker for his company and was suitable for detailed classically-inspired designs.

In 1774, Josiah Wedgwood introduced Jasperware, an unglazed vitreous fine stoneware, in various colors like blue, green, lilac, yellow, black, or white. The iconic light blue jasper became known as 'Wedgwood Blue' and is still a recognizable signature of Wedgwood.

Wedgwood introduced Jasperware, a type of dry-bodied stoneware in contrasting colors, in 1775. This innovative product became synonymous with the Wedgwood brand and was highly popular for its unique design.

In 1782, Joseph Wedgwood perfected a tool for measuring heat in kilns, showcasing his innovative and scientific approach to pottery making. This invention contributed to his recognition and election to the Royal Society in 1783.

In 1783, Josiah Wedgwood was elected a member of the Royal Society in recognition of his pyrometric beads used in creating Jasperware. Jasperware, designed to resemble ancient Roman cameo glass, became one of Wedgwood's most famous products.

In 1787, Josiah I created Jasperware medallions depicting a kneeling enslaved man with the motto 'Am I Not a Man and a Brother?' for the Society for the Purpose of Effecting the Abolition of the Slave Trade. These medallions were not for sale but were distributed at the Society's meetings to support the cause, becoming an early protest symbol.

Josiah Wedgwood created a remarkable Portland Vase in 1789, showcasing his influence by neoclassicism. The vase was made of black basalt with Jasper relief, reflecting Wedgwood's innovative and artistic approach to pottery.

In 1790, Josiah Wedgwood and Sons created the first edition copy of the Portland Vase in Stoke-on-Trent, England. This piece of Jasperware is a significant example of Wedgwood's craftsmanship and innovation.

Josiah Wedgwood, a prominent English potter and founder of the Wedgwood company, passed away in 1795.

The Wedgwood brand introduced translucent bone china in 1812, which became England's equivalent to European Porcelain.

In 1815, William Blake worked on engraving for Wedgwood's china catalogues, showcasing his artistic skills in this medium.

In 1851, Wedgwood company's disposal of assets and strategic decisions, including exhibiting at the Great Exhibition of 1851, helped save the company from financial ruin and showcase their products to a wider audience.

In 1895, Wedgwood was first incorporated as Josiah Wedgwood and Sons Ltd. This marked a significant milestone in the company's history, solidifying its status as a leading manufacturer of fine earthenware and stoneware.

In May 1906, the first formal Wedgwood museum was opened at the main (Etruria) works, with a curator named Isaac Cook.

The Fairyland Lustre chalice bowl, designed by Daisy Makeig-Jones and manufactured by Josiah Wedgwood and Sons, dates back to 1923. This exquisite piece is housed in the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.

In 1935, Keith Murray designed the Shape 3802 vase for Josiah Wedgwood and Sons, showcasing a modern and well-designed approach to ceramics.

Since 1940, the Wedgwood factory in Barlaston, England has integrated modern technology with traditional craftsmanship, such as throwing, modelling, and decorating, to meet the increasing global demand for their exclusive pieces.

In 1952, Waterford introduced the Lismore pattern, which became the best-selling crystal pattern globally. It has been a significant part of the company's success.

Under the guidance of Josiah Wedgwood V, the company relocated from Stoke-on-Trent to Barlaston in 1968, establishing a modern factory and reaffirming their commitment to quality and design.

The iconic Wild Strawberry pattern was introduced into the Wedgwood product portfolio, becoming one of the most cherished designs.

In 1986, Waterford Glass Group PLC acquired Wedgwood for $360 million, marking a significant change in ownership for the company.

In 1987, Wedgwood merged with Waterford Crystal to create Waterford Wedgwood plc, forming an Ireland-based luxury brands group. This strategic move expanded the company's portfolio and market presence.

In 1995, Wedgwood was granted a Royal Warrant from Queen Elizabeth II, recognizing the company's exceptional quality and craftsmanship. This prestigious endorsement further elevated Wedgwood's reputation.

In 2001, the company started collaborating with Jasper Conran to create a white fine bone china collection, which later expanded to include numerous patterns.

In 2005, Waterford Wedgwood acquired the Minton Archive along with other assets of the Royal Doulton group.

On 24 October 2008, the Wedgwood Museum reopened in a new multimillion-pound building.

In May 2011, the archive of the Wedgwood Museum was inscribed in UNESCO's UK Memory of the World Register.

On 1 December 2014, the collection of the Wedgwood Museum was purchased and donated to the Victoria and Albert Museum.

In 2017, Wedgwood received a Gold award for its first Wedgwood Show Garden at the RHS Chatsworth Flower Show. The garden, designed by Sam Ovens, marked a successful partnership with the RHS.

In 2018, Wedgwood achieved a significant milestone by winning a Gold award at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show. The garden was designed by Jo Thompson, showcasing the brand's excellence in garden design.

The Wild Strawberry design by Wedgwood is re-imagined with gold foliage and hand painted butterflies, creating a modern fresh feel. The collection, made from fine bone china, showcases exquisite craftsmanship.