Ruskin Pottery: A Collector’s Essential Guide

Rediscovering a Lost Art

The Ruskin Pottery, active from 1898 to 1935, is a shining example of the Arts and Crafts Movement’s innovative and artistic spirit. Established by William Howson Taylor and his father, Edward Taylor, Ruskin Pottery set itself apart with groundbreaking glaze technologies and simple yet striking forms. This departed from the elaborate majolica and earthenware styles of the late 19th century, embracing a design ethos prioritising beauty through simplicity and function.

Innovation Through Chemistry

Among the most renowned “chemist potters” of the early 20th century, William Howson Taylor developed experimental firing techniques that resulted in breathtaking glaze effects in red, blue, lavender, and green hues. His expertise in reduction firing, a technique reviving ancient Chinese pottery methods, led to the creation of the iconic ‘sang de boeuf’ red glaze—a feature that drew widespread admiration. His mastery earned Ruskin Pottery international acclaim, with major export markets in the United States and prestigious retailers such as Tiffany & Co. showcasing his work.

A Legacy Preserved in Print

For collectors and design enthusiasts, Ruskin Pottery: A History and Collector’s Guide is the definitive resource on this influential pottery house. The book provides a detailed exploration of its history—from its foundational principles to its closure in 1935, marked by Taylor’s symbolic destruction of his glaze recipes. It not only documents the technical achievements and artistic breakthroughs of Ruskin Pottery but also offers deep insight into the personal journeys of its key figures.

💡 Discover the history, techniques, and legacy of Ruskin Pottery!
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About the Authors

This comprehensive guide is co-authored by Professor Rob Higgins, a historian with a passion for local and medical history, and Will Farmer, an expert in 20th-century ceramics and decorative arts. Their combined expertise creates a rich narrative, making this book an essential read for collectors, historians, and design aficionados.

A Testament to Timeless Design

More than just a historical account, Ruskin Pottery: A History and Collector’s Guide invites readers to explore how design principles continue to shape our world today. The pottery’s dedication to balance, contrast, and emphasis in its glaze techniques exemplifies the enduring relevance of the principles of design.

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