W & R Stoke On Trent Carlton Ware

Right, let's talk Carlton Ware. You might be thinking, "Carlton...what now?" But trust me, even if you don't know you know it, you've probably seen it lurking in a grandparent's china cabinet or maybe even gracing a vintage shop window. Think outrageously coloured pottery, sometimes looking like it was dipped in molten gold, and often sporting scenes that are, well, a bit bonkers. It's the flamboyant flamingo of the ceramics world.

W & R Stoke-on-Trent Carlton Ware, to give it its full and proper name, was all about boldness. Forget your minimalist Scandinavian vibes; Carlton Ware was like a party in a pottery factory, and everyone was invited. Imagine your Aunt Mildred, but as a vase. That's the kind of energy we're talking about.

A Bit of Background (But Not Too Much, Promise!)

So, who were W & R? Well, they were Wiltshaw and Robinson, the clever clogs behind this pottery phenomenon. They started up in Stoke-on-Trent (AKA, the heart of British pottery-land) way back in 1890. And they weren't shy about experimenting! They weren't just churning out your standard teacups. Oh no. They were creating pieces that were instantly recognizable.

Think of it this way: while other potteries were diligently practicing their scales, Carlton Ware was belting out karaoke at full volume. They were the rock stars of the potting world, and their music was... let's just say, unique.

What Makes Carlton Ware, Well, Carlton Ware?

Okay, so what exactly is it that makes a piece of Carlton Ware stand out from the crowd? Here's the lowdown:

• The Colours: Prepare to be dazzled! From vibrant oranges and greens to deep blues and reds, Carlton Ware used colours that practically vibrated off the shelf. They were never afraid to go bold, even if it meant clashing with everything else in the room.
• The Lustre: That shiny, almost metallic finish? That's lustreware. It's like they took a regular piece of pottery and gave it a solid gold spray tan. It's unapologetically glamorous.
• The Shapes: Carlton Ware wasn't just about your average plate or cup. They created all sorts of quirky shapes, from vases that looked like exotic fruits to dishes shaped like leaves. They were clearly having a blast in the design department.
• The Patterns: Oh, the patterns! Dragons, pagodas, landscapes... you name it, they probably slapped it on a piece of pottery. Some of their patterns were inspired by the Orient (think lots of gold and mystical creatures), while others were pure Art Deco fabulousness.

In short, Carlton Ware is unmistakable. It's like trying to forget that time you accidentally wore mismatched shoes to a wedding. You just can't. It's that memorable.

Why Should You Care? (Even a Little Bit)

Alright, so maybe you're not planning on starting a Carlton Ware collection tomorrow. But here's why you should at least appreciate it:

It's a little piece of British history. It's a reminder of a time when things were a bit more... exuberant. When people weren't afraid to embrace colour and kitsch. And let's be honest, in a world of beige and grey, a little bit of Carlton Ware can be a welcome antidote.

Think of it as a conversation starter. You can bet your bottom dollar that if you have a piece of Carlton Ware on your mantelpiece, someone's going to ask you about it. And you can regale them with tales of Wiltshaw and Robinson, lustreware, and the sheer, unadulterated joy of outrageously coloured pottery.

Plus, it's just plain fun! Whether you're a serious collector or just a casual observer, Carlton Ware is guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. It's the ceramic equivalent of a comedy show, and who doesn't love a good laugh?

So next time you're browsing a vintage fair or rummaging through a charity shop, keep an eye out for that distinctive sheen and those bold colours. You might just find yourself falling for the quirky charm of W & R Stoke-on-Trent Carlton Ware. And if you do, welcome to the club! We're a bit mad, but we have great taste (in pottery, at least).