From:Williamson Art Gallery and Museum
Name/TitleDella Robbia Vase
About this objectA Della Robbia red earthenware vase in an ovoid shape with a long tapering neck. It is slip coated with sgraffito hand painted decoration in the form of a blue flower and bud with green foliage. There are three panels of flowers alternating with three yellow panels. There is also a painted inscription dedicated to J T Thompson Esq, Mayor of Birkenhead in 1899.
It was designed by Charles Collis, one of the most prolific clay decorators and designers at the pottery. He was a determined individual, set on becoming a professional ceramic artist. He alternated his periods spent at the pottery with working at other potteries and factories such as Doulton. This led him to experiment with new techniques and designs. His life and the activity of the pottery are well documented in his memoirs. Although he received no named recognition in articles in The Studio, he was well regarded by Rathbone. From a working class background, born and bred in Birkenhead, his artistic determination is representative of Morris' values of craftsmanship.
This piece demonstrates the designer's ability to manipulate the form of the vase, with the long tapering neck and how it is emphasised by the pattern of decreasing circles. The ovoid shape is further emphasised by the alternating panelling and the flowers are complicated and symmetrical.
This piece was painted by Liz Wilkins, of whom Collis frequently collaborated with. She joined the pottery aged 15 and stayed until 1904, when she went on to marry Samuel Sergeant. She was from a working class background and had no formal artistic training. Despite this she was skilled in her sgraffito work and as a colourist, receiving special attention for pieces at the Home and Industry Exhibition in 1900. Her presence at the pottery can be described as being at the heart of the ideals of William Morris as she was from a humble background who managed to receive some success as a craftswoman.
Unfortunately, with this piece, the glaze has run in several places, including the neck and the inscription.
MakerDella Robbia Pottery (active 1894-1906)
Maker Rolemanufacturer
MakerCollis, Charles (1879-1966)
Maker Roledesigner
MakerWilkins, Liz (born 1878)
Maker Roledecorator
Date Madec. 1899
Period19th century
Medium and Materialsearthenware
Place MadeBirkenhead, Merseyside
Style and IconographyArts and Crafts
Inscription and Marksmark
DRPM
Method: inscribed
Position: base
Techniqueearthenware
Measurementsheight: 38.6cm
Subject and Association Keywordssgraffito
Subject and Association KeywordsThompson, James T., Alderman (c. 1849-1921)
Subject and Association KeywordsMayor of Birkenhead
Credit LineGifted by Alderman James T. Thompson, 1913
Object Typevase
Object numberBIKGM.63a
Copyright LicenceAll rights reserved
