Ceramics

This book showcases the National Trust's extensive ceramic collection, revealing personal stories and historical insights through selected key pieces.

This publication offers an insightful exploration of the National Trust's remarkable ceramic collection, which encompasses around 75,000 artifacts across 250 historic properties in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Ceramics highlights one hundred key pieces, each selected for their significance in understanding the history and patronage of ceramics. Through these objects, readers are introduced to personal narratives of ownership, display, taste, and consumption, enriching our appreciation of these exquisite items.

The selection features a diverse array of Continental wares, including Italian armorial tableware, Dutch Delft from the Greek A factory, and Chinese Kraak ware, among others. Additionally, it showcases renowned porcelain manufactories such as Sèvres and Vienna, as well as notable English pottery styles like Wedgwood Black Basalt and Chelsea porcelain. Each piece tells a story, reflecting the evolving tastes and collecting habits of the British aristocracy and gentry over four centuries.

Many of the items included in Ceramics are published for the first time, often illustrated within their original settings. This curated selection not only serves as a visual feast for lovers of ceramics but also provides a comprehensive survey of ceramic collecting trends, revealing the intricate connections between art, culture, and history. The book invites readers to appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship behind each piece while considering the broader context of its collection.