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Wedgwood Busts

British

Arguably the most celebrated of all English ceramics makers, Wedgwood was founded in 1759 by potter Josiah Wedgwood (1730–95) in Staffordshire, which was home at one time to hundreds of pottery workshops. The company is famed for its Jasperware — molded neoclassical stoneware vases, plates and other pieces inspired by ancient cameo glass, featuring white figures, scenes and decorative elements set in relief on a matte-colored background. The best-known background hue is light blue, but Wedgwood’s iconic silhouettes also appear on green, lilac, yellow, black and even white grounds. Some antique Wedgwood dinnerware pieces and other items feature three or more colors.

The Wedgwood firm first came to prominence for its tableware, which quickly gained favor in aristocratic households throughout Britain and Europe. In 1765, Wedgwood was commissioned to create a cream-colored earthenware service for Queen Charlotte, consort of King George III. The queen was so thrilled with her new china that Wedgwood was given permission to call himself “Potter to Her Majesty,” and the decorative style became known as Queen’s Ware. 

Not to be outdone, Catherine the Great of Russia commissioned her own set of Wedgwood china in 1773. Nearly 200 years later, the firm created a 1,200-piece service for the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II. In recent years, leading designers including Jasper Conran and Vera Wang have collaborated with Wedgwood — in the tradition of such distinguished 18th-century artists such as the painter George Stubbs and metalsmith Matthew Boulton.

From plates and other dinnerware to decorative items like urns, cachepots and candlesticks, Wedgwood designs lend a traditional air to Anglophile interiors. And even if you have to make your own tea, you may find it comforting to sip it from a delicate cup that was manufactured in the same Stoke-on-Trent kiln that produced Her Majesty’s tea service. Be sure to keep your pinky raised.

Find antique Wedgwood pottery on 1stDibs.

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Creator: Wedgwood
Antique Wedgwood Basalt Bust of Homer
Antique Wedgwood Basalt Bust of Homer

Antique Wedgwood Basalt Bust of Homer

$4,494

Antique Wedgwood Basalt Bust of Homer

By Wedgwood

Located in Wormelow, Herefordshire

An antique Wedgwood black basalt bust of Homer. This Grand Tour style sculpture is a very stylish depiction of the scholar. This English bust depicts the legendary poet and author Homer who is presumed to have penned the two of ancient Greece’s most epic poems: the Iliad and the Odyssey. Scholars are uncertain whether or not Homer actually existed but if he in fact did exist, Homer would be regarded as one of the greatest literary artists of his time. At over 160 years old, this Homer bust...

Category

Mid-19th Century English Grand Tour Antique Wedgwood Busts

Materials

Stone

Large 19th c. Wedgwood Black Basalt Library Bust of President George Washington
Large 19th c. Wedgwood Black Basalt Library Bust of President George Washington

Large 19th c. Wedgwood Black Basalt Library Bust of President George Washington

$12,650 / item

Large 19th c. Wedgwood Black Basalt Library Bust of President George Washington

By Wedgwood

Located in Litchfield, CT

Very large antique 19th century Wedgwood black basalt library bust of President George Washington after Jean-Antoine Houdon (French, 1741-1828). Stamped "Wedgwood" on the base and "W...

Category

19th Century English American Classical Antique Wedgwood Busts

Materials

Pottery

Antique Wedgwood Basalt Bust of Plato
Antique Wedgwood Basalt Bust of Plato

Antique Wedgwood Basalt Bust of Plato

$4,082

Antique Wedgwood Basalt Bust of Plato

By Wedgwood

Located in Wormelow, Herefordshire

An antique Wedgwood black basalt bust of Plato. This Grand Tour sculpture is a very stylish depiction of the Athenian philosopher Plato (c.428-347 B.C.). He is one of the most impo...

Category

Mid-19th Century European Antique Wedgwood Busts

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Marble

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Wedgwood busts for sale on 1stDibs.

Wedgwood busts are available for sale on 1stDibs. These distinctive items are frequently made of ceramic and are designed with extraordinary care. There are many options to choose from in our collection of Wedgwood busts, although gray editions of this piece are particularly popular. Many of the original busts by Wedgwood were created in the neoclassical style in united kingdom during the early 20th century. Prices for Wedgwood busts can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — on 1stDibs, these items begin at $780 and can go as high as $19,000, while a piece like these, on average, fetch $1,600.
Questions About Wedgwood Busts
  • Where is Wedgwood from?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Wedgwood is from Stoke-on-Trent, UK. Josiah Wedgwood founded it there in 1759. The company continues to produce its porcelain, china and other products at factories in the surrounding area. On 1stDibs, you can find a variety of Wedgwood decorative objects.
  • How can you tell Wedgwood?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertAugust 29, 2024
    To tell Wedgwood apart from other makers, familiarize yourself with the markings used by the company over the years. You can usually find images of them on trusted online resources. Wedgwood typically etched its markings directly onto its pieces, so unlike paper labels, the hallmarks typically remain intact even on older items. By searching your piece for the appropriate markings, you can usually determine whether Wedgwood produced it. If you'd like an expert opinion, a certified appraiser or experienced antique dealer can assist you. Explore a diverse assortment of Wedgwood china and porcelain.
  • What is the Wedgwood mark?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    Wedgwood marks changed many times from the manufacturer's founding in 1759 until today. Very early pieces often say "Wedgwood and Bentley," while most pieces made from 1769 to 1929 say "Wedgwood" in block letters. In 1929, the brand began to use a serif script. On 1stDibs, find a selection of expertly vetted Wedgwood.
  • What is the history of Wedgwood?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Wedgwood is a fine china and porcelain manufacturer. Established in 1759 by Josiah Wedgwood in England, Wedgwood is known for its unglazed stoneware that features contrasting colors. Find a variety of Wedgwood fine china from some of the world's top sellers on 1stDibs.
  • Is there black Wedgwood?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Yes, there are black Wedgwood pieces. While Wedgwood china and porcelain is best known for its signature blue and white, some Wedgwood pieces are available in black and other colors as well. Shop a wide selection of Wedgwood collectibles on 1stDibs.
  • What is a Wedgwood plate?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    A Wedgwood plate is a flat round dish produced by Wedgwood, a manufacturer based in Stoke-on-Trent, UK, that opened in 1759. Depending on the design, the plates may function purely as decorative objects or be suitable for serving food. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of Wedgwood plates.
  • Is Wedgwood valuable?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertApril 16, 2024
    Whether Wedgwood is valuable varies. Some pieces may be worth only slightly more than the initial price paid for them, while others may have appreciated in value considerably due to their style, type, age and rarity. Some of the most highly sought-after types of Wedgwood include Queen's Ware, Jasperware, Black Basalt, Majolica and Fairyland Lustre pieces. The condition of a particular piece will also contribute to its value. To get an estimate of how much your Wedgwood is worth, consult a certified appraiser or knowledgeable dealer. On 1stDibs, explore a variety of Wedgwood pieces.
  • How do I date Wedgwood?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    To date Wedgwood, locate the potter's marks. Find the marks in an authoritative online reference to estimate the date. Because many replicas of authentic Wedgwood exist, consider using the services of a licensed appraiser for authentication. Shop a large collection of expertly vetted Wedgwood on 1stDibs.
  • How can I tell how old my Wedgwood is?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertFebruary 21, 2024
    To tell how old your Wedgwood is, examine it for markings. Most Wedgwood pieces bear factory marks in an inconspicuous area, such as on the bottom or back. By comparing these markings to trusted online resources, you can usually get a rough idea of a piece’s age. For assistance with dating a particular piece, enlist the help of a certified appraiser or experienced dealer. On 1stDibs, find a wide range of Wedgwood pottery.
  • What do the numbers mean on Wedgwood?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    The numbers on Wedgwood tell you which catalog edition first featured the piece. You can use the information to identify the style name and approximate date of Wedgwood. On 1stDibs, you can shop a variety of expertly vetted Wedgwood ceramics.
  • What is Wedgwood Blue in Jasperware?
    2 Answers
    1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Blue Wedgwood Jasperware is a type of intricately detailed, matte pottery with an unglazed finish. Its pale blue color has been affectionately called ‘Wedgwood blue’. On 1stDibs, find a collection of authentic blue Wedgwood Jasperware from some of the world’s top sellers.
    1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Wedgwood blue is a distinct pale blue that’s commonly used in Jasperware. Jasperware is a type of pottery developed in England during the late 18th century by Josiah Wedgwood. Shop a collection of antique Jasperware from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
  • What is the Wedgwood blue named after?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Wedgwood blue is a color named after its appearance on jasperware pottery. It is a soft gray-ish toned blue. It would often be accented by white decoration on the pottery. Shop a range of Wedgwood blue jasperware from top sellers on 1stDibs.
  • What is the difference between Jasperware and Wedgwood?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Jasperware was first created by Josiah Wedgwood in the 1770s and can be described as stoneware that has a matte finish. It is from the Wedgwood company so the difference is that Wedgwood is a term used to describe the company and all products it produces, while Jasperware is a line of fine stoneware produced by the company. Shop a collection of Wedgwood Jasperware from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
  • What is Wedgwood jewelry made of?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023
    Wedgwood jewelry is made of unglazed vitreous stoneware called jasperware. Settings are marcasite, steel, gold or silver, depending on the piece. Shop an assortment of Wedgwood jewelry from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
  • Is Wedgwood bone china?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Yes, Wedgwood is bone china. According to its website, bone china is considered one of the most refined and luxurious materials for table use, no matter what the meal or occasion. Wedgwood has a long history of high-quality and luxurious bone china. On 1stDibs, find a collection of authentic bone china pieces from some of the world’s top sellers.
  • What is the difference between Wedgewood and Wedgwood?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertOctober 7, 2024
    The difference between Wedgewood and Wedgwood is in the design associations of the two words. Wedgwood is perhaps most commonly associated with the Wedgwood company. Arguably the most celebrated of all English ceramics makers, Wedgwood was founded in 1759 by potter Josiah Wedgwood in Staffordshire, which was then home to hundreds of pottery workshops. The company is famed for its pieces inspired by ancient cameo glass, including Jasperware, molded Neoclassical stoneware vases, plates and other objects. These feature white figures, scenes and decorative elements set in relief on a matte-colored background. Generally, Wedgwood and Wedgewood are both surnames and the names of cities. You can find towns called Wedgwood in the UK, Texas and Washington state, and places named Wedgewood in Michigan and numerous Canadian provinces. Explore a variety of Wedgwood pottery on 1stDibs.
  • How do I identify my Wedgwood pattern?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertNovember 13, 2024
    To identify Wedgwood patterns, research your piece or work with a certified appraiser or experienced antique dealer. If you'd like to complete the identification process yourself, you can try snapping a photo of the pattern and performing a reverse image search to find a match. Should you be unsuccessful, browse image galleries of Wedgwood patterns hosted on trusted online resources, looking for your pattern. Explore a selection of Wedgwood china on 1stDibs.
  • What is green Wedgwood called?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    Green Wedgwood is called jasperware. Josiah Wedgwood created the first jasperware pieces in 1775. In addition to green, the pottery comes in pale blue, dark blue, black, yellow and lavender colors. On 1stDibs, find a selection of jasperware decorative objects.
  • What is black Wedgwood called?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Black Wedgwood pieces were also known as basaltes ware or black basaltes, manufactured by Josiah Wedgwood and named after the volcanic rock basalt. On 1stDibs, find a collection of Wedgwood Black Basalt pieces from some of the top sellers around the world.
  • Is Wedgwood still being made?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    Yes, Wedgwood is still being made as of December 2021. The company produces fine china and porcelain decorative objects. Potter Josiah Wedgwood founded it on May 1, 1759, in Stoke-on-Trent, England. Today, the Finnish company Fiskars Group owns it. You'll find a collection of Wedgwood on 1stDibs.

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