|    thepotteries.org 

  [ Index of Patterns ]  
 

Gaudy Welsh pottery patterns


"Gaudy Welsh pottery" is a brightly colored, heavily decorated type of earthenware that originated in Wales and was produced primarily between 1820 and the 1890s. 

Inspired by Imari ware, it features underglaze cobalt blue and overglaze enamels in vibrant colors such as red, green, and yellow, often accented with pink lustre (which can appear copper over cobalt blue). 
While some pieces include gold or silver gilding, these are not considered part of the traditional Gaudy Welsh palette.

Despite its Welsh name, most Gaudy Welsh pottery was actually made in England for export to the American market. It is known for its bold, hand-painted floral designs and a heavier body. 

Popular patterns include Tulip, Oyster, Sunflower, Wagon Wheel, Grape Vine and Chrysanthemum. The term "Gaudy" reflects the showy and vibrant aesthetic that defines this unique ceramic tradition.

  


Tulip
Oyster
Sunflower

 


Waggon Wheel
Grape Vine
Chrysanthemum

 

 


Gaudy Welsh pottery is a distinctive type of colorful, decorative earthenware that was primarily produced in Wales and parts of England during the early to mid-19th century (circa 1820–1890s). 

It is known for its vibrant and often flamboyant appearance, which earned it the name “gaudy.” Despite the name, some of it was actually made outside of Wales, especially in Staffordshire and Sunderland, but it was very popular in Welsh communities—hence the name.

Key Characteristics:

  • Bright, hand-painted colors, especially cobalt blue, green, orange, and pink lustre.

  • Bold floral and geometric patterns, often featuring roses, tulips, or abstract motifs.

  • Ironstone or earthenware body with a smooth glaze.

  • Copper or pink lustre highlights were common.

  • Typically found in teapots, cups, saucers, plates, and jugs.


Makers:

While Gaudy Welsh was not tied to a single potter, it was made by several manufacturers, particularly in:

  • North Staffordshire, (Stoke-on-Trent) England

  • Swansea and Cambrian Potteries in Wales

  • Sunderland and other northeast English potteries

These were often inexpensive wares made for everyday use by working-class families, and many pieces were unmarked, making attribution to a specific maker difficult.

Known Stoke-on-Trent manufacturers include: 

Charles Alerton

Boughey & Wiltshaw

Elgreave Pottery Co

Grimwades

Sampson Hancock

Keeling & Co

Ridgways

Sudlows

Thomas Wood & Co

Wood & Hulme

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Grimwades Amherst Japan pattern

 

 


Atlas China
Stoke-on-Trent
England


Winton Ware
Grimwades
Stoke-on-Trent
England

 

Grimwades pattern 8543: This pattern was introduced by Grimwades in the 1930s.  The design features a bird with blue and orange plumage surrounded by floral and abstract designs - it is typical of the "Amherst Japan" pattern. 

The English versions are sometimes described as having elements of "Gaudy Welsh"

Marks used include the Winton Ware globe mark and also the Atlas China mark, they are used interchangeably.  In 1910 the business of Atlas China was taken over by Grimwades and in the 1930 to 1936 period the name 'Atlas China' was revived by Grimwades. 


 

 

 

[ Index of Patterns ]