About this objectA Della Robbia earthenware concave-sided vase with tapering base and top. It is lead glazed with sgraffito decoration in the form of green stems and blue flowers (small) on a yellow background. The upper and lower taping sections have a green and brown geometric design.
Liz Wilkins 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.
This pot shows some experimentation in glazing techniques with the geometric pattern on the base and rim having layers of glaze that create a mottled effect. The flowers are depicted naturalistically, which not only conforms to the Arts and Crafts obsession with nature but also demonstrates the artist's painting skills. On the underside are the initials of an unknown modeller, "J S".Â
MakerDella Robbia Pottery (active 1894-1906)
Maker Rolemanufacturer
MakerWilkins, Liz (born 1878)
Maker Rolepainter
MakerJ S
Maker Rolemodeller
Date Made1895-1901
Period19th century
Medium and Materialsearthenware
Place MadeBirkenhead, Merseyside
Style and IconographyArts and Crafts
Inscription and Marksmaker's mark - Della Robbia ship with initials
D R
Method: inscribed
Position: base
