Do you like ceramics? Then consider collecting Gaudy Welsh pottery. There is a wide range of colorful designs and patterns to discover, painted on a variety of utilitarian household items.
Manufactured in England from about 1820-1890, potteries created Gaudy Welsh for working class people. Sales men sold Gaudy Welsh door to door. Hawkers gave it as prizes at carnivals and fairs. This pottery was widely popular with the Welsh, who brought their collections with them when they arrived in America.
Don’t be put off by the term ”Gaudy.” The name is not an original one. It evolved as a category given by dealers and collectors. Also known as “Swansea Cottage” the paint decoration essentially mimicked Japanese Imari artwork. Gaudy Welsh pottery is easy to recognize because a standard color scheme exists. Cobalt blue is usually the predominant base color. Burnt orange, yellow, pink, and green floral and geometric designs fill in the details. Look for copper and pink luster accents.
Collectors eventually gave names to patterns to provide a sense of order. “Tulip” and “Grape” patterns are more common. Cwm-Cadlan, Beddgelert, and Penrhyndeudraeth are fun to pronounce.
Manufacturers made Gaudy Welsh pottery quickly and affordably to fulfill a need. The working class wished for beautiful tea sets and utilitarian items to display in their homes. In order to fill this need, the pottery was made in haste, and imperfections abound. Paint runs, splatters, and pitting are to be expected and add to the charm.
Families used Gaudy Welsh on a daily basis. Wear to paint, hairlines and some chips will appear on household pottery. See our collection of Gaudy Welsh under our new “Ceramics” category. We will attempt to disclose as accurately as possible the condition of each piece for sale. All objects are guaranteed as represented. Please email a request for more images.