Wedgwood Jasperware is proving to be as collectable now as it was when it first appeared in 1774 going by the results at 1818 Auctioneers.
One of Josiah Wedgwood’s greatest inventions – Jasperware is a hard, fine-grained stoneware that can be stained in a variety of colours and shaped into vases, urns, plaques and tableware says Annia Zalewski. Adding that it’s then decorated with applied figures and motifs, inspired by classical art.
“Wedgwood hit upon the formula as a response to Britain’s neoclassical obsession in the second half of the 18th century,” explains Annia.
“Archaeological digs in Italy were unearthing great treasures, Scottish architect Robert Adam was designing buildings influenced by ancient Greece and Rome and everyone wanted to decorate their homes in this style.
“Whilst the most common colour for Jasperware is blue there’s also black and other rarer shades, which fetch even higher prices at auction. Jasperware is decorated with classical relief ornamentation usually in white – so expect Greek gods and goddess, cupids, Pegasus and laurel leaf patterns,” says Annia Zalewski.
Recent examples of Wedgwood Jasperware selling well at 1818 Auctioneers:
A Jade coloured collection – including a fruit bowl and clock, plates, trinket box and vase – with most
pieces boxed, which made £560.
Three pieces of black basalt Jasperware, including a twin-handled vase, which sold for £240.
Three pieces of Jasperware in plum, with a Wedgwood stamp, realised £210.
And a black and white basalt lidded Jasperware urn and cover, with dancing maids, which sold for £165.