The History of Wedgwood Jasperware

Wedgwood jasperware is a type of unglazed stoneware that was invented by the English potter Josiah Wedgwood in the late 1700s. It was named after the mineral jasper, which has been used for centuries for its ornamental qualities.

Wedgwood jasperware is known for its delicate, pale blue colour and intricate reliefs of classical scenes, figures, and designs. It was immensely popular in its time and remains a highly prized collectable today.

The story of Wedgwood Jasperware begins with Josiah Wedgwood himself. Born in 1730 to a family of potters, he began working in the family business as a young boy and quickly showed a talent for pottery-making. In 1759, he established his own company, Wedgwood & Bentley, in partnership with his cousin Thomas Bentley.

One of Wedgwood's early successes was his development of "Queen's Ware," a type of cream-coloured earthenware that was used for everyday tableware. However, Wedgwood was always striving to innovate and improve upon his products, and he began experimenting with new types of pottery.

One of these experiments was jasperware. Wedgwood was inspired by the classical pottery of ancient Greece and Rome, which often featured relief designs in white on a coloured background. He wanted to create something similar but with a more delicate and refined look.

Wedgwood worked on developing jasperware for several years, experimenting with different formulas and firing techniques. In 1774, he finally achieved success with a combination of clay, flint, and bone ash. The resulting stoneware had a fine, smooth texture and a pale blue colour that was achieved by adding cobalt oxide to the mixture.

To create the intricate reliefs that were a hallmark of jasperware, Wedgwood used plaster moulds that he made from his own designs. These moulds could be used to produce many identical pieces, allowing for mass production.

Jasperware was an immediate sensation. It was featured at the Great Exhibition of 1851 in London, and it was even given as gift by royalty. Wedgwood expanded his line to include other colours, including green, lilac, and black, and he added new designs featuring a wider range of classical scenes and motifs.

Today, Wedgwood jasperware is still produced in limited quantities, and vintage pieces are highly prized by collectors. It’s a timeless elegance and classic designs ensure that it will remain a cherished part of ceramic history for years to come.