Emma Bridgewater’s pottery is instantly recognizable, with its Moles porcelain pattern seen in many kitchens. Their black toast pattern, hand-drawn lettering on cream-colored earthenware, which was designed by her husband, Matthew Rice, is a classic design and is often copied. Emma first burst onto the scene in her sponge skin in the 1980s and they are still very popular.
Emma had an early interest in porcelain and used to buy small pieces at local markets. Looking for a birthday present for her mother and wanting to buy her a cup and saucer, Emma herself couldn’t find anything she liked and she realized that there was a gap in the market for contemporary porcelain. She launched her first collection in 1985, a variety of hand-fluffed patterns on various porcelain pieces. Emma initially established brixton sponge with Alex Dufort, where he learned all aspects of ceramic production. As demand grew, he realized that he would have to find a factory that would produce porcelain to his designs.
One of his initial pieces, a half-pint mug, inspired by 18th-century creamware, is still popular today. The porcelain tableware was made in Stoke on Trent and then decorated by Emma, using an ancient method of applying motifs with a natural sponge. She initially tried to sell the pieces at Covent Garden Market, which was not very successful, and then an antique dealer suggested she try a trade fair.
Bridgewater’s early pieces include chintz, a classic floral, Coral, a traditional all-over print, Fish and grass, dotted, quail Y Yard, Rows of birds and animals surround the wear between thin green bands. Emma Bridgewater china sells very well at auction.
Emma was soon commissioned to do special orders for stores like Harvey Nichols and General Trading Company. The Royal Academy and the National Trust also sold exclusive patterns. Home magazines were eager to use Emma’s china in their bedroom sets and her popularity skyrocketed.
In 1987, Emma designed her most popular pattern, figs, fluffed in purple and green and is said to be inspired by a tree in a walled garden in Norfolk. In 1990, Emma opened her own flagship store in Fulham, west London. Although this is the center of the business, the pottery is made in a large Victorian factory in Stoke on Trent, which she bought in 1996.
black toast, originally called toast and jam, it was launched in 1992 and is still a bestseller. The range changes regularly, which is great for collectors, especially if you can get your hands on the first few plates that say Toast and Jam.
Chickens appear frequently in her designs, apparently due to the fact that her husband Matthew has had chickens since he was a child. Birds often feature in the designs and have been very popular. They do special offers for the US market.red cardinal Y blue jay and new designs are eagerly awaited.
Bridgewater’s current designs are a mix of contemporary, classic and children’s patterns and you’ll find Emma’s pottery in most department stores and some gift shops. Emma has a very hands on approach and still cuts the sponges for the new designs and keeps her ear to the ground and provides what the clients want from her. figs is going to be reissued by popular demand and the new dinosaur pattern,Pottersaurus, It is very popular with children.
