Two Centures Of Ceramic Art In Bristol - Being A History Of The Manufacture Of "The True Porcelain"
By Richard Champion
With An Account Of The Delft, Earthenware and Enamel Glass Works
By Hugh Owen
Printed Privately For The Author by John Bellows: Gloucester 1873 (Genuine 1st Edition Prior To Bell and Daldy)
"Two Centuries of Ceramic Art in Bristol - Being a History of the Manufacture of "The True Porcelain", by Richard Champion, with additional sections on the delft, earthenware, and enamel glass works by Hugh Owen, was privately printed for the author by John Bellows of Gloucester in 1873. This genuine first edition, preceding the later Bell & Daldy issue, is a landmark study of Bristol's rich ceramic tradition from the early eighteenth century through to the Victorian era. Champion, himself a noted porcelain manufacturer and associate of the Bristol works, provides a detailed narrative of the development of English soft-paste porcelain, the evolution of styles and techniques, and the personal stories of artisans and proprietors who shaped the city's reputation for fine craftsmanship.
Owen's complementary contribution broadens the historical scope to include Bristol's output in delftware, earthenware, and decorative glass, presenting a full panorama of the region's industrial artistry. Together, their work documents not only technical and artistic achievements but also the economic and social forces behind the city's ceramic trade. The volume stands as a cornerstone reference for historians of British ceramics and collectors of early porcelain, highly prized for its meticulous research, scarce private printing, and early insight into the legacy of Bristol's "true porcelain."
Bristol was home to several delftware potteries. In 1682 Edward Ward, an apprentice at Brislington, set up the first pottery in the city centre on Water Lane, commonly called the Temple Back pottery. Others opened as the demand for delftware grew. The industry continued until the 1780s."
Light wear and minor rub through and staining to covers and spine as shown. There is a contemporary Bookplate inside the front cover. The odd age spot and light age toning with the vast majority of the pages in very good condition. Excellent binding with no loose pages. A beautiful, presentation copy of this scarce private pressing. Please study photos to further understand condition.
