Hornsea Pottery was founded in 1949 by brothers Colin and Desmond Rawson. Driven by a wide array of design influences the pottery quickly grew from being a purveyor of seaside tourist trinkets to the largest studio pottery in the world, employing over 700 people.
Hornsea’s rapid growth was generated by its widespread popularity and inspirational design. Located away from the traditional ceramics heartland in Staffordshire, Hornsea developed unique and groundbreaking techniques and designs many of which were influenced by the Rawson’s textile backgrounds.
Hornsea is a remarkable British design story involving some of the icons of British pattern and ceramic design. Hornsea remains a much loved and influential brand, with a timeless appeal.
Their signature designs which appeared in many British kitchens are those of Heirloom (in brown, green and blue), Saffron and Bronte. Heirloom was produced from 1966 to 1989, Saffron 1970 to 1990 and Bronte 1972 to 1987.
You can read more about Hornsea's history, here.
THIS LISTING
Bird | Small Ashtray, in Lakeland Green
Designed by John Clappison
15cm wide x 11.5cm tall x 3cm deep
Another rare find from Clappison's excellent design collection. This stunning piece is the smaller ashtray from the set, featured in the Lakeland Green colour way.
There is very little surface wear, with the only small point to note is a the tiniest of nicks on the reverse side of the beak, as per the last picture. It is very minimal, but mentioning for accuracy.
Incredibly, this piece also retains its original vintage packaging.
