Trade Journal UK

PGGTR 1935 August - Part 2 Editorial 1

Pottery Gazette and Glass Trade Review

August 1933 - continued

Page 963 - Left column: Aynsley China, John Aynsley & Sons Ltd.

Right Column:

Literary Contents

Editorial Notes —

page

- Chipped Pottery

965

- The June Trade Returns

965

Employment in the Pottery and Glass Industries

967

Correspondents’ Inquiries

967

Correspondence —

 

- Chipped Pottery

967

Answers to Correspondents

969

Obituary —

 

- Mr. Victor August Forester

969

Buyers’ Notes (Illustrated)

971

United States Pottery Market

979

Society of Glass Technology

981

A Bristol Display (Illustration)

983

Art Evolution in British Pottery

985

A Canadian China Department Staff (Illustration)

986

In Paris (Illustrated)

987

A Spode-Copeland Exhibition (Illustrated)

988

Christmas Buying

990

The New “Pottery Queen” (Illustration)

990

National Council of the Pottery Industry

991

Exhibition of Bernard Moore Pottery (Illustrated)

992

Pottery Manufacturers’ Cruise

993

Interior Designs and Display (Illustrated)

994

Window Displays

997

Sir Arthur W. Lambert

998

Pottery Saggars: How to Improve Them

999

Sculpture in Pottery

1003

British Pottery and Glassware in New Zealand (Illustration)

1005

Some Problems of Pottery Printing

1006

Exports of British Pottery and Glass during June, 1935

1010

Imports of Pottery and Glass for June, 1935

1011

Trade Notes

1011

Company Notes

1012

In Parliament

1013

Contract Notes —

 

- Contracts Open

1017

- Tenders Accepted

1017

New Trade Marks (Illustrated)

1017

The Gazette

1017

Notes from the Potteries

1020

The Glass Trade

1024

The China Clay Industry

1028

New British Patents (Illustrated)

1030

 

Special Indications

A special exhibition of ware of the late Mr. Bernard Moore was held recently.

A well-known Northern Dealer has retired from the china and glass business.

Articles on Display are included in this issue.

 

Page 963 Pottery Gazette and Glass Trade Review, August 1935

Page 964: Royal Doulton “Radio”

The Pottery Gazette and Glass Trade Review

Established 1878 Proprietors: Scott, Greenwood & Son

HEAD OFFICE: 8, Broadway, Ludgate Hill, London, E.C.4.

Telegrams: Printeries, Cent, London ‘Phone: CITy 4788 (Pvte. Branch Exch.) POTTERIES OFFICE: SUTHERLAND CHAMBERS, STOKE-ON-TRENT (Telephone: Hanley 48037)

SUBSCRIPTION: 15/- per annum (including Directory and Diary) post free to all parts of the World

Editorial Notes

 

Chipped Crockery

It is, unfortunately, a common experience to see chipped, crazed and cracked pottery in use in restaurants and hotels, yet, although to-day we have many rules and regulations to safeguard health, the authorities turn a blind eye to this possible source of infection.

Towards the end of July Mr. H. K. Hales, M.P. for Hanley, brought the matter before the House of Commons and asked the Minister of Health if he was aware of this source of infection and if he would take the necessary steps to prohibit the use of such defective pottery. The Minister, however, said that if the ware was washed all would be well, and there­fore he declined to legislate on the matter. Mr. Hales, however, returned to the attack and asked if the Minister was aware that such legislation had long been in force in Australia; that ware in this condition was unanimously condemned by the medi­cal profession; and that washing was useless. He also exhibited a damaged cup to prove his point. As usual, however, the Minister refused further discussion.

It needs no imagination to see what can occur by the use of such crockery in a restaurant. Cups, for instance, are used each day by hundreds, and where the cup meets the lips (the kissing of pottery, Mr. Hales wittily calls it) often the glaze is broken and the absorbent body underneath exposed. The frac­ture blackens with tannin from the tea; it forms a “home” for microbes. No washing can effectively cleanse the part exposed and the obvious remedy is to discard the damaged ware and replace it with new.

So long as the law turns a blind eye to such lack of cleanliness some proprietors of restaurants and hotels will continue to use the offending crockery; and if they cannot be educated to ordinary cleanli­ness it is reasonable to suggest that compulsion should be used.

The June Trade Returns

According to the Board of Trade returns im­ports of china during the six months ended June amounted to 23,993 cwt., whereas in the corresponding period of 1934 imports were only 9,387 cwt., and in 1933 8,424 cwt. Earthenware, on the other hand, at 6,952 cwt. was about 13,500 cwt. lower than the previous year’s figures, and about 40,000 cwt. lower than the six months’ total of two years ago. Under the item “Refractory goods, not elsewhere specified” imports are recorded to have amounted to 50,579 cwt., compared with 69,850 cwt., and 16,421 cwt. in the years 1934 and 1933 respectively.

As regards glassware, imports of domestic and fancy amounted to 170,936 cwt. for the six months, compared with 181,507 cwt. in the corresponding period of the previous year. Illuminating glassware imports amounted to 36,499 cwt., compared with 44,345 cwt. Plate and sheet glass were nearly 36,000 cwt. lower at 765,722 cwt. Glass bottles and jars rose to 288,409 gross, against 220,137 gross in 1934.

Exports of china during the first six months of this year amounted to 10,473 cwt., about 1,000 cwt. above the previous year’s figures. Exports of earthenware totalled 228,105 cwt., compared with 222,067 cwt. As regards the various markets, the United States received 23,034 cwt. of British earthenware, compared with 26,579 cwt. in the corresponding period of the previous year. Canada increased her trade, from 61,437 cwt. in 1934, to 63,407 cwt. this year. Our exports to the Argentine Republic amounted to 10,090 cwt., a little below the 10,882 cwt. of last year. New Zealand proved a better market, taking 13,009 cwt., compared with 8,419 cwt. in 1934. South Africa, and Australia too, exported more earthenware. The exports of re­fractory goods amounted to 850,371 cwt., compared with 639,813 cwt.

Page 965 Pottery Gazette and Glass Trade Review, August 1935

Page 966 Minton

Domestic and fancy glassware exports totalled 13,524 cwt. in the six months, against 13,453 cwt. in the corresponding period of the previous year. Bottles and jars at 144,959 gross were lower by about 5,000 gross. Plate and sheet glass exports rose to 283,693 cwt., compared with 249,275 cwt. in the first six months of 1934.

Employment in the Pottery and Class Industries

In the current issue of “The Ministry of Labour Gazette” the following details are given:—

Pottery Industry. — Employment in North Staffordshire again showed little change and re­mained slack on the whole. At Bristol it continued good, and at Derby and at Worcester it was fairly good. The percentage of unemployed (including those temporarily stopped) among insured work­people, aged 16-64, was 19.9 at June 24, 1935, as compared with 19.3 at May 20, 1935, and 23.0 at June 25, 1934.

Summary of Employers’ Returns.

 

Number Employed.

Wages Paid.

 

Week ended June 22, 1935.

Inc. ( + ) or
Dec. (-) on a

Week ended June 22, 1935.
£

Inc. ( + ) or
Dec. (-) on a

Branches.

Month before. Per cent.

Year before. Per cent.

Month before. Per cent.

Year before. Per cent.

China Manufacture

2,025

-0.3

+13.1

3,639

+1.5

+27.6

Earthenware Manufacture

6,695

-1.5

+7.5

12,763

-1.2

+15.9

Other Branches (including unspecified)

2,010

-1.1

+ 7.3

3,830

+0.1

+12.1

 

 

Total

10,730

-1.2

+8.4

20,232

-0.5

+17.1

 

Districts.

 

 

 

 

 

 

North Staffordshire

8,527

-1.6

+ 7.8

14,693

-0.6

+17.8

Other Districts

2,203

+0.4

+10.9

5,539

-0.1

+15.3

 

 

Total

10,730

-1.2

+8.4

20,232

-0.5

+17.1

Returns from employers relative to short-time working showed that, of 10,663 workpeople em­ployed by firms making returns, 2,793, or about 26 per cent., were working on an average about 9œ hours less than full time in the week ended June 22, 1935; on the other hand 653, or about 6 per cent., were working overtime to the extent of 7œ hours each on the average.

Glass Industry. — In the general summary for June it is stated that, in the glass trades, employment showed little change; in the bottle-making section it was slack; in other sections it was moderate.

Correspondents’ Inquiries

The Editors will be glad to have the names and addresses of the makers of the following ware, or any information concerning it which will be of assistance to the firm inquiring

[1145] — Earthenware marked with a scroll and “Pershore, British Manufacture.”

[1146] — “Vitry” art ware.

[1147] — Pottery vase with figures in relief on panels and marked “L. E. Nippon” in a shield with a crown.

[1148] — China marked “Celtic,” with Prince of Wales Feathers over initials J.D.B.

[1149] — “Rhapsody Gold Print” ware.

Correspondence

Chipped Pottery

TO THE EDITORS OF “THE POTTERY GAZETTE AND GLASS TRADE REVIEW”

Sirs, — My question in the House of Commons to the Minister of Health on the above subject has caused very considerable interest to be taken on this important matter concerning public health. From all parts of the country I have received hundreds of letters all thanking me for having taken up the sub­ject in the House and assuring me of the necessity of the prohibition of such defective ware being used in our hotels and restaurants. Quite a large num­ber of letters are from the patients in sanatoria, hos­pitals, boarding houses, &c., &c., and in some cases writing in very heated and indignant terms of the crockery they are compelled to use.

There can be no doubt whatever that in the in­terests of public health this subject should receive the most earnest consideration of the Minister of Health. It is, in my opinion, of far more importance than the subject of slum clearance. Whereas the slums affect only a small proportion of our popula­tion the use of the crockery in public places affects nearly every citizen of the country.

The mass of correspondence I have received on this subject compels me to proceed in my campaign for the use of table and teaware free from the con­tamination of germs which undoubtedly exist where chipped and cracked pottery are in public use.

My attention has also been drawn to the very in­adequate measures taken for the washing of glasses, several correspondents pointing out that whereas in other countries automatic glass washers are in universal use this country, for some unknown reason, has not yet discovered that such effective apparatus exists for this purpose.

I would take this opportunity of thanking my many correspondents for the interests they have taken in my question as it is quite impossible, much as I would like it, to write them individually.

Yours, etc., Harold K. Hales, M.P. for Hanley.

TO THE EDITORS OF “THE. POTTERY GAZETTE AND GLASS TRADE REVIEW.”

Sirs, — I see that Mr. H. K. Hales, M.P. for Han­ley, is making a very praiseworthy effort to obtain the prohibition of the use of chipped and damaged china and earthenware in hotels and public places, the use of which is already prohibited in Australia and New Zealand.

I am sure it is the hope of the entire trade that Mr. Hales will be successful in obtaining the pro­hibition, but it would appear to me that the chances of his being able to do so are somewhat small.

I should like to suggest, however, that this mat­ter is one which provides an admirable opportunity for telling publicity on the part of the entire china and earthenware trade in the form of a National Ad­vertising Campaign, to enlighten the public on the obvious dangers of using chipped articles.

The idea put forward is probably not a new one,

 

Page 967 Pottery Gazette and Glass Trade Review, August 1935

Page 968: Wedgwood Queensware

but I do not think it has ever previously been ex­ploited to its full value. I should imagine that practically all progressive manufacturers and re­tailers would be prepared to contribute some part of their advertising appropriation to provide for the National Advertising expenditure. This National Advertising, no doubt, could be backed up by some form of window publicity and display.

A great many other trades in the country appear to be adopting a co-operative method of advertising. I do not think it will be disputed that if the public could be impressed with the serious dangers in­volved in the use of chipped goods — not only in hotels and restaurants, but also in their own homes — the whole trade would be bound to benefit to a considerable extent. — Yours, etc.

S. Stuart, Director.

Stonier & Co., Ltd., 78, Lord-st., Liverpool.

Answers to Correspondents

Inquiries Answered by Post or Telephone.—

[1114] “Doric” china. — [1115] Bulb bowls de­corated with Dutch figures. — [1116] “Grey-dawn” ware. — [1117] “Thatched Cottage” ware. — [1118] — Glass tumblers. — [1119] “Empire” ware. — [1120] “Minton” china. [1121] — Glass hors-d’oeuvre dishes. — [1122] “Crown Chelsea” china. — [1123] “Spode” ware. — [1124] “Susie Cooper” dinnerware. — [1125] “Winton” ware. — [1126] Figures and ornaments. — [1127] “Quimper” ware. — [1128] “Phoenix” ware. — [1129] “Lalique” glassware. — [1130] Ware bearing mark of double-handled vase and the monogram MF. — [1131] Pottery brass stamps. — [1132] “Pyrita” oven ware. — [1133] “Silchesterware.” — [1134] “Balmoral” china. — [1135] “Ironstone” china. — [1136] “Mancourt” ware. — [1137] “Ambassador” ware. — [1138.] Pudding bowls. — [1139] Fortune-telling teacups. — [1140] Fireproof cooking ware. — [1141] “Alma” ware. — [1142] Glass posy bowls. — [1143] “Elwell” posy vases. — [1144] Earthenware vinegarmeasures.

Obituary

Mr. VICTOR AUGUST FORESTER. Aged 59

WE regret to announce the death of Mr. Victor A. Forester, of Blythe Lodge, Blythe Bridge, Stoke-on-Trent, managing director of the Blyth Porcelain Co., Ltd., High-st., Longton.

Mr. Forester, who passed away on June 29, had been in failing health for the past eighteen months. Prior to then he had always been a most active mem­ber of the works with which he was associated, and as such was well known and highly respected in the china trade.

The youngest son of the late Mr. Thomas Fores­ter, who was for many years managing director of the firm of Thomas Forester & Sons, Ltd., of the Phoenix and Imperial Potteries, Longton, Mr. Victor Forester, after receiving his education at the New-castle-under-Lyme High School, became associated for a while with his father’s firm. Later, however, following the death of his father, he commenced in

business on his own account under the style of the Blyth Porcelain Co., which concern succeeded a company which had previously been run under the name of the Dresden Porcelain Co. Great improve­ments in the equipment and organisation of the pot­tery quickly followed upon Mr. Victor Forester’s identification with it, and we recall with what pride and enthusiasm Mr. Forester conducted us round the workshops of his factory in those early days and pointed out to us the means which he had adopted for ensuring the best possible goods and service in the interests of the retailers whose trade it was his ambition to secure and retain.

Mr. Victor Forester’s main activities were de­voted to his business, to which he gave unswerving attention. Rarely could one call at the Blyth Works without finding Mr. Forester in attendance, and although he was a busy man he was always ready and willing to accord an interview to any caller having genuine claims upon his attention. His main pursuits, apart from business, were the various sports in which he indulged. He was for many years a director of the Blythe Bridge Tennis and Bowling Club, and in his earlier years he hunted with the North Staffordshire hounds. He was fond of shoot­ing, and he could also direct an angler to some of the best trout runs in the river Blythe — that stream after which his pottery, incidentally, was named.

Mr. Forester is mourned by two sons (Mr. Victor Forester and Mr. Tom Forester) and two daughters, to whom the sympathy of a wide circle of friends will be extended.

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Mr. Victor A. Forester. Photo by G. W. Harker, Longton.
The funeral took place at Forsbrook on July 2, following a service in the parish church there. The numerous following and the wealth of floral tributes testified to the affection and esteem in which the deceased was held, both in connection with his activities as a pottery manufacturer and in his social life.

 

Page 969 Pottery Gazette and Glass Trade Review, August 1935
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ROYAL BRIERLEY CRYSTAL

Original “Royal Brierley” Drinking Classes for every occasion.

{Glass-Study.com: Caption sequence changed to match image.}

No. 481A. Whisky Set in Crystal and Black by R. S. Williams-Thomas.

No. 561A. Lager Beer Set by H. Whitworth.

No. 552A. Cocktail Set frosted, Crystal and Black.

No. 429A. Sherry Set by Keith Murray, A.R.I.B.A.

LONDON OFFICE: BATH HOUSE, 57, HOLBORN VIADUCT, E.C.

STEVENS & WILLIAMS LTD., BRIERLEY HILL CLASS WORKS, STOURBRIDGE

Page 970 Pottery Gazette and Glass Trade Review, August 1935

Buyers’ Notes

By a Member of Our Staff

Mintons, Ltd.

It seems opportune that we should call the attention of our readers to a number of circumstances which would appear to indicate that the well-known firm of Mintons, Ltd., Stoke-on-Trent, have recently entered upon a fresh era of their age-long career.

Let us explain, however, at the outset that it is rather more a whole combination of circumstances than any one particular revolutionary-feature which impels us to make such a bold statement as that above. It is hardly necessary to point out that, in connection with the history of most of our large commercial or industrial concerns, circumstances arise from time to time which suggest the necessity for a modified outlook, and which cause it to be put into force without occasioning any real break with tradition or discontinuity of procedure. In the case of a firm such as Mintons, Ltd., a new epoch or cycle can be begun in a quite undemonstrative way, and, indeed, almost imperceptibly, except to those who happen to be near to the centre of things and therefore in a position to judge of what is in hand or in prospect.

Thus it comes about that although some very important developments have been taking place in connection with Mintons, Ltd., quite recently, the members of the retail trade, who, of necessity, are widely dispersed, may not yet have formed anything like a complete picture of what it all implies. It falls to our lot, therefore, to unfold at least some portion of the story, so as to prepare the retail trade for what would seem to lie ahead.

Every pottery dealer of standing, of course, will know well enough that there was a time when, in consequence of the high place that Mintons, Ltd., won for themselves as manufacturers of both fine china and earthenware, their productions were capable of finding a ready sale by virtue of one fact alone — that they were back-stamped “Minton.” Those were, indeed, happy commercial days, and especially for the retailer who was fortunate enough to hold the leading position in his own particular town or district; to him “Minton” was always to be regarded as a name to conjure with — as, indeed, it still is, except that there have been big social changes during the last couple of decades, entailing, amongst other things, an altered complex on the part of all classes towards life and, as an incidental thereto, domestic routine.

There are signs, however, already comprehended by many of our leading retailers, of a disposition on the part of cultured people to return to some of the joys which were once such a well-marked feature of British home life, including the possession of pottery of a class and order which merit a justifiable pride — that superior type of pottery, for example, for the production of which Mintons have always been reputed.

The situation has to be laced, nevertheless, that for some years yet one of the things which the public will doubtless demand, through the sheer force of social economics, if for no other reason, is pottery that is reasonably priced, and whether it be “Minton” or any other make, due regard will have to be paid to the price factor.

It is satisfactory to know — and this must be the burden of our message just now — that Mintons, Ltd., having taken stock of the whole situation, have been engaged for some time past in so reorganising their factory that they will be able in the fullest sense to meet the altered demands. It would not be too much to say that that impressive-looking factory which has long constituted one of the chief landmarks of Stoke-upon-Trent has been veritably turned inside out during the last few years with the single-minded purpose of endeavouring to keep abreast of the times. This, we venture to believe, is something which is calculated to make itself very evident from now onwards in connection with the firm’s productions.

The high-class china trade of Mintons, Ltd., will perhaps always more or less take care of itself, for here price is not, and can never be, the only or most important factor.

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MINTONS, LTD.Modern designs in “Minton” earthenware.
Photo by The Pottery Gazette

Page 971 Pottery Gazette and Glass Trade Review, August 1935
©2007 Glass-study.com

Stuart
Crystal

These Stands are made in three designs to hold 2, 3 or 4 Candles.

STUART & SONS LIMITED, STOURBRIDGE, ENGLAND

LONDON SHOWROOMS: 6, ST. ANDREW ST., HOLBORN CIRCUS, E.C.4.

Telephone: Central 3888. Telegraphic Address: “Glasturtos, Lud, London.”

AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND: L. F. Wahlers & Co., Tasmania House, Flinders Lane, Melbourne. 204, Clarence St., Sydney. CANADA: Oakley, Jackson, & Farewell, Ltd., 28, Wellington St. East, Toronto, 2. SOUTH AFRICA: Ross-Elliott & McKellar (P.O. Box 2104), Mercantile Buildings, 62, Hout Street, Cape Town. (P.O. Box 1310), 405, West Street, Durban. (P.O. Box 2732), 14, Belfast Buildings, 108, Market Street, Johannesburg. FAR EAST: W. N. A. Smalley & Co. (P.O. Box 353) Hong Kong.

 

Page 972 Pottery Gazette and Glass Trade Review, August 1935
Even here, however, we could write much as to what Mintons, Ltd., have been doing of late to stimulate a demand for their china tableware by rendering it available to a wider constituency ; and so it can be put on record that no dealer need hold back under the mistaken belief that “Minton” china, from start to finish, is exclusive and that its price is such as to preclude good and steady business being done with it. There is to be found in the range of “Minton” china to-day something which will appeal to all classes who entertain a cultured taste.

We would even venture to predict that, in the near future, there will be a real renaissance in connection with “Minton” china in the zone of competitive prices, and we base that prophecy upon the fact that Mr. John W. Wadsworth, who was associated with the Minton works for a long period many years ago, has recently returned to it to take charge as art director, and is full of enthusiasm to infuse a new vitality into this as into other departments, and bring about an increased turnover through the medium of a wider range of designs suitable to the upper middle-class trade.

The fact which impresses us most of all, however, at the moment, is the wonderful contribution which Mintons, Ltd., are bent upon making in regard to earthenware. In order to get right down to fundamentals in this connection they have recently installed a new glost tunnel kiln, the first in the industry, we believe, to be fired by town’s gas. This new kiln, we learn, will be capable of dealing with the whole of their glost output under normal conditions, and already it has replaced a battery of five of the old bottle-neck ovens. It will effect material savings both in fuel and labour, and will undoubtedly play its part as an important contribution towards making the Potteries a healthier and better place in which to live.

Some time ago, it will be recalled, Mintons, Ltd., installed an electrically operated enamel kiln for the firing of the decorations, and now this new glost tunnel kiln, which will be just as automatic in its operation, brings to pass yet one more phase in the turnover of the regime of one of our oldest potteries from intermittent to continuous firing. It is almost unnecessary for us to observe that this all goes to show that Mintons, Ltd., are acting in the determination not to lag behind, but to lead in the matter of production methods ; and as it is at once apparent that the new oven will be capable of dealing with a huge, continuous throughput, almost of necessity greater attention will be bestowed upon the cultivation of the firm’s share of the earthenware trade.

We are interested to see that Mr. Wadsworth has been specialising during the last couple of months on new tableware patterns in earthenware, and a whole series of these, we are informed, will be in the hands of the travellers and the London showrooms by the time these Notes appear in print.

The photograph which will be found here reproduced of three new earthenware patterns will indicate, we think, very powerfully that a new order as regards “Minton” earthenware has already begun, and the indications are that the process will rapidly extend to the china side of the firm’s activities, and that within the very near future some noteworthy developments will be witnessed here also.

We have avoided on this occasion referring specifically to the super-quality productions in “Minton” china, for the reason that these are so well known and recognised in a general sense that we felt our space would be better employed for the time being in forecasting what the firm is likely to be specially engaged upon in the creation of an entirely new set of designs capable of interesting the middle-class trade, but designs, withal, that are well-balanced, rhythmic and not unworthy of the back-stamp which they will bear.

We can recommend our readers to keep a look-out for continued developments at the Minton factory, for fresh creations are appearing almost daily, and, as we said at the beginning, a new era seems to have been ushered in.

Susie Cooper Pottery

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SUSIE COOPER POTTERY. Photo by “The Pottery Gazette”
Distinctive shapes and decorations in utility wares. Note the new cover-dish — the “Neo-classic.”

During recent weeks many people, not merely those directly concerned with the distribution of pottery, but those who are interested in it from the point of view of the layman and would-be possessor, have had their attention arrested, when passing along Holborn Viaduct, by the unique creations in pottery now being shown in the window of the ground-floor showroom of the Susie Cooper Pottery, situated at No. 46, which is only a few strides, so to speak, from Holborn Circus.

We congratulate Miss Cooper . upon having acquired this new showroom, which is right in the heart of the pottery buying quarter, as we also congratulate her upon the many striking new forms and decorative styles in pottery which she is continually evolving. There is something which is indeed distinctive, as our readers will be prepared one and all to agree, in Miss Cooper’s products in general, and it is this freshness of outlook, which has been combined with no small element of courage, which impresses one in viewing the Susie Cooper creations.

If any pottery dealer of standing should still be in doubt as to whether he can handle such lines of goods to advantage — and we are not unaware, of course, that retailers in our trades do not too readily fall for anything that is drastically fresh, preferring, as a rule, to let the “other fellow” try it out first — we would recommend him to pause for a few moments on Holborn Viaduct and take note of the reaction of the average passer-

 

Page 973 Pottery Gazette and Glass Trade Review, August 1935
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©2007 Glass-study.com

Illustrated above are two of our new Jubilee suites, both possessing outstanding value, beautifully shaped and decorated. Buyers should inspect these suites at the earliest possible moment.

London Showrooms: Mr. J. E. Heath, 18, Charterhouse St., E.C.I. Agents:— New Zealand: John Raine, Ltd., Laery’s Buildings, 7, Allen Street, Wellington. Australia: W. G. South & Cowan, 352, Kent Street, Sydney. South Africa: A. C. Mclntosh, 33-34, Belfast Buildings, 108, Market St., Johannesburg. Argentine & Uruguay: P. W. Howard & Cia., Cangallo, 910, 1er Piso, Buenos Aires. U.S.A. & Canada: Meakin & Ridgway, Inc., 129/131, Fifth Avenue, New York.

T. WEBB & CORBETT LTD. STOURBRIDGE, ENGLAND

Page 974 Pottery Gazette and Glass Trade Review, August 1935
by to the unique collection of pottery now being exhibited in the showroom window by Mr. Beeson, Miss Cooper’s London representative. We did this ourselves a week or two since, and must confess that we were more than a little surprised.

We know that there is a tendency for people to become inured to the attractions of almost any window unless there be something in it which is at once arrestive, and even then that arrestive line must be given an unrestricted chance of telling its story. There is no danger, however, of this not happening at the new London showroom of Miss Cooper, for almost every piece of pottery on show has some unique feature connected with it, and it is remarkable how ready the public is to respond to things which are distinctive, and especially so when the distinctiveness is associated with quality and stands for something that is estimable.

We have mentioned on more than one occasion previously that somehow Miss Susie Cooper cannot help revealing in her creations an individualistic touch; but that is not all. Having approached pottery making essentially from the artistic side, she sees a thing through in its completeness from its very inception. Form, decoration and even texture in the Susie Cooper ware are part of a considered scheme; it is not merely a case of sticking a decoration on to a pot regardless of context; and in addition to all this there is, in the background the whole time, the woman’s point of view, which counts for a good deal — in domestic pottery at all events.

The few pieces which we here illustrate of some of Miss Susie Cooper’s modern creations will serve, we think, to show what we have endeavoured in the foregoing paragraph to suggest, and the fact that such productions are meeting with a sound response in many of the higher quarters of the retail pottery trade seems to lend support to the view that there is still room in the pottery trade for deep thought and reflection on the artistic side.

We cannot help recalling to mind that, when Miss Susie Cooper first “let herself go” by giving free expression in her pottery to some of the personal ideas which she had nursed in regard to lines of possible development, there were not a few who gave the impression that they were quietly amused, and that they evidently entertained the view that the schemes in project were altogether too advanced and would prove impracticable. But ledger accounts talk, and it is no secret that some of those dealers

who, at first, were inclined to toy with some of the Susie Cooper fantasies have summoned up more courage as they have continued. As one of these buyers said to us only the other day: “After all, there is a big difference between pottery that is both made and decorated by a pottery artist, who appreciates the possibilities of pottery and knows the ‘feel of it,’ and stunt lines such as are here and there foisted upon the trade from without.”

Miss Susie Cooper’s full range of modern samples ought, we feel, to be seen by any pottery retailer who prides himself on keeping up to the times, though we do believe it is well that we should offer the one word of warning that it is likely to be worse than useless to attempt to mix such wares in a general window with pottery of the ordinary, everyday, competitive type; and for the reason that the two types have little or nothing in common, and simply will not mix.

E. Hughes & Co.

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E. HUGHES & CO. Photo by The Pottery Gazette.
Smart new patterns in printed and filled-in treatments.

Many really smart decorations in good grade bone china, available at a competitive figure, are to be seen at the present time in the showrooms of Mr. E. C. Hales, Audrey House, Ely-pl., E.C.1, who represents E. Hughes & Co., of Fenton, Stoke-on-Trent, producers of the well-known “Paladin” brand of china.

This firm is primarily a china tea-ware house, and they have always prided themselves on being able to put before trade buyers a whole bevy of distinctive decorations. This applies not only to the simpler treatments which, owing to the economy phase, have been very much in vogue during the past few years, but also to the more impressively wrought decorations, such as those in which are seen, to remarkably good effect, rich colour grounds and delicate tracery embellishments, either in gold or enamels, or both.

When sumptuous-looking patterns were specially in favour — and there are not a few signs that the demand for such patterns is steadily-returning — the dealer could always expect to find something of real interest in the “Paladin” china range, and abundant testimony of this has been provided by the firm at the numerous exhibitions in which, from time to time, they have displayed their products.

The truth of the matter is, of course, that Hughes & Co. are not a mass-production china house, and that their quality is degrees higher than the average strictly competitive china teaware manufacturing concerns; they claim to give special attention to the purity of the body of their china as well as to the finish of the wares; with the result that upper-grade decorations can be

 

Page 975 Pottery Gazette and Glass Trade Review, August 1935

Page 976: C.T. Maling & Sons Ltd., “Blossom Time”

fittingly applied — a tea set of “Paladin” china will bear, and deserves to have, a decoration of good tone and character, be it rich or moderate, as the case may be.

The success and enterprise of any house is very clearly emphasised when it can adapt itself as between one particular class of demand and another, and that, we think, has been plainly exemplified in the “Paladin” china range of patterns of recent years during the demand for less expensive productions. Many simple, though really charming, patterns have been put on the market by E. Hughes & Co. during the recent somewhat difficult years, and they have certainly been very successful with their neat enamelled designs, which have been available at a very modest figure and have placed many of our leading retailers in a position to “fill the bill.”

Amongst the simpler patterns in “Paladin” china which have been selling very well this season are several with green and platinum bands, offered in a series of alternative styles. Some individualistic renderings are revealed, and they certainly strike a modern note, whilst also possessing the merit of being available at a reasonable figure.

A pattern which has been styled the “Allandale” is a very pleasing conception in printing and enamelling. The outline print is of a delicate grey, and the brush-filling-in is done in various styles, one of the most effective being pale blue and orange.

Another interesting pattern is the No. 3732, which is banded in brown and so worked as to give the impression of brush streaks. The final effect is both interesting and unique.

A crayon type of pattern is also offered in various colourings applied beneath the glaze. This is a new type of effect, and one that is likely to serve a very useful purpose. There are certain dealers who have said that there is nothing in pottery decoration between flowers on the one hand and bands on the other. Well, here there is something that is neither — something entirely fresh.

In conclusion, we would like to mention here that, in conjunction with Mr. E. C. Hales, the manufacturers of “Paladin” china have recently brought out a series of special designs portraying some of the exploits of “the Nipper,” as humorously rendered in the well-known cartoons of Brian White. These, however, will be found mentioned and illustrated elsewhere in our “Buyers’ Notes” section.

Wearside Pottery Co.

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WEARSIDE POTTERY CO. Photo byThe Pottery Gazette
A few specimens of the new “Paramount” golden-brown oven-and table-ware.

A NEW range of fireproof cooking and table ware is being put upon the market by the Wearside Pottery Co., of Millfield, Sunder-land, and is to be known as the “Paramount” golden brown cooking ware.

We have pleasure in putting before our readers a photograph of a group of preliminary samples of this new ware, deliveries of which can now be undertaken.

It is claimed for this new brand of ware that refractory materials are the main content of the body, which at once makes for fireproof-ness, and that although strict attention is given to finish and appearance, in no respect will durability be sacrificed through a straining after ornamental effect. The ware is to be utilitarian as a first principle.

Five selling points in connection with the new “Paramount” oven-ware are stressed by the producers, and these it may be well to quote. They are as follows:—

  1. The ware can be bought direct from oven to table — the articles are designed with the idea in view of serving direct from cooker to table, thus eliminating the necessity for an intermediate dish.
  2. A leadless glaze is employed, which means that the surface is not affected by acid juices during cooking.
  3. The ware is of a pleasing, warm tone of colour, and does not look out of place when brought direct from the oven to the table.
  4. The articles are easy to clean, their surface being hard, white and non-absorbent.
  5. The nature of the material is such that, with reasonable care, the ware will yield long and efficient service.
  6. “Paramount” cooking ware is entirely British.

In elaboration of these claims regarding the merits of their new “Paramount” fireproof cooking and tableware, the producers offer a number of hints to users, and retailers would do well to take a note of these, since they apply with some force to all pottery wares that are sold for culinary purposes. The ware, they say, will withstand the heat from a direct flame providing the flame is under control and not allowed to flare up the sides of the vessels. The use of an asbestos mat on the gas ring is advocated, for this will not merely keep the vessel clean, but will help to ensure an even distribution of heat.

Naturally, uneven heat should as far as possible be guarded against. A fierce heat is neither necessary nor economical. A moderate, uniform heat is recommended, and the heat should always be applied gently and gradually increased. Sudden changes from heat to cold, or vice versa, should be avoided. With such precautions good fireproof ware should last indefinitely.

 

Page 977 Pottery Gazette and Glass Trade Review, August 1935

Page 978: Spode 'Byron'

Sealed carton packing of the new “Paramount” cooking ware is being resorted to, which will considerably lessen the labour of the distributor, both in stocking and handling, besides eliminating the risk of breakage in transit.

The following are some of the articles which are being produced in the new “Paramount” ware: Teapots, coffee-pots, cream jugs, pie dishes (deep or shallow), casseroles, entree dishes, round eared dishes, covered souffle dishes, ramakins, egg poachers, oval patties, etc., etc.

Samples of the new lines can be seen at the showrooms of the firm’s London agents, B. Jonzen & Co., Ltd., Gamage Building, Holborn, E.C.1.

Mr. E. C. Hales

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Mr. E. C. HALES. Photo by “The Pottery Gazette”
Nursery china decorated with “Nipper” cartoons.

A NEW conception in nursery china, which bids fair to make a strong appeal wherever it may be placed on show, is the “Nipper” series, a few pieces of which will be found illustrated along with our present notes.

This china is being expressly made for Mr. E. C. Hales by the firm of E. Hughes & Co., Fenton, Stoke-on-Trent, and we are informed that Mr. Hales (who is Hughes & Co.'s London agent) will undertake the entire distribution of it as sole lessee.

The “Nipper” cartoons of Mr. Brian White, which are featured in this series, are so well known that it seems hardly necessary for us to attempt in any way to describe them — the name at once conveys the idea. One might even venture to suggest that the modern child is probably much more interested in the day-by-day exploits of “Nipper” than in the traditional stories of the conventional fairy-book.

In “Nipper,” Mr. Brian White has unquestionably created a character that is familiar to most folk, old and young alike, and there must surely be hosts of young children who would experience a real thrill at possessing some china of their very own featuring some of Nipper’s adventures. From this point of view alone the new ware seems to be assured of success, given a place in the average china shop.

As a start, five subjects have been reproduced, and others will doubtless be added from time to time as the demand arises. From the success which has been attained, however, with the limited range of subjects already reproduced, the indications are that it will not be long before the series is definitely expanded. Trade buyers, we are informed, have responded enthusiastically to the idea and have materially encouraged Mr. Hales and the china firm which he represents and with whom he has collaborated in putting the new line of ware on the market.

Samples of “Nipper” china can now be seen at Mr. Hales’ showrooms, Audrey House, Ely-pl., E.C.1, though any buyers who may be too remote from London to see the samples there can have confidence enough, no doubt, to send to Mr. Hales an initial order through the post. And it should be remembered, of course, that it is very often he who is first in the field who derives the greatest advantage from a new line such as this.

Hardware (Bristol), Ltd., 4, 6 & 8, Milk-st., Bristol, 2, have sent us a copy of their first illustrated general catalogue. It is well produced and includes a large section dealing with pottery and glassware.

United States Pottery Market

New York, July 12.

Importers of English chinaware seem quite satisfied with the volume of sales in the past month. Business has not been very brisk, this being a normally dull season, but most firms have been able to make a very favourable showing compared with a year ago; one or two importers even spoke of increases in business ranging from 100 to 150 per cent, compared with June and July last, and although these figures are probably the exception rather than the rule, the whole trade has reason to feel satisfied.

Buyers are mainly ordering from stock, since it is too early for them to start buying new lines. Orders, though not large, have been numerous and indicate that merchandise is moving into consumers' hands at a steady rate.

There have, however, been a few buyers in town looking over new lines. An exhibition of household furnishings this week brought a fair number of out-of-town buyers to New York, and they have taken the opportunity to visit the china houses and inspect autumn goods. This is especially true of Canadian buyers, who, although they buy directly from England, sample the goods through the American end of the market.

The outlook for the autumn is quite bright. When salesmen start on the road after Labour Day they should find a ready demand for their goods. The Middle West especially may be expected to buy heavily, since large crops are the rule this year, and the farmer will probably have more money than for a long time.

At a meeting of the National Brotherhood of Operative Potters, members were told that the prospects for the year were good. Particular emphasis was laid on the fact that peace between employers and workers was assured, despite the abolition of the N.R.A. codes, by the fact that agreements have been signed which do not expire until October, 1936, and the industry is continuing to work under code conditions.

Reuters Trade Service.
Page 979 Pottery Gazette and Glass Trade Review, August 1935
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“National” Quality machine made Thin Tumblers

No. 5 Cut - Fancy Etched - Circle Etched - Plain œ Pint - No. 105 - Key Etched - No. 107

British made thin tumblers in excellent quality at popular prices. packed in easily handled cartons each containing one gross. Government stamped tumblers a speciality.

Our range of pressed tableware comprises dishes, vases, butters and covers, rimmed fruit dishes, etc, in various sizes and designs. Write for full illustrations and price lists.

NATIONAL GLASS WORKS (YORK) LTD

London showrooms: 1, Charterhouse Street, Holborn Circus, E.C.1

Telegrams: “NATIWORK. LONDON.” Telephone: HOLBORN 2146 (2 LINES).

Page 980 Pottery Gazette and Glass Trade Review, August 1935

Society of Glass Technology

From Our Own Reporter

THE last meeting of the 1934-35 session of the Society of Glass Technology was held in the Chemistry Theatre of the University, Liver­pool, on June 19, the chair being occupied by Mr. B. P. Dudding (President).

It was the first time in the history of the Society that a meeting had been held in Liverpool, and the President, in referring to this, expressed his pleasure and that of the Council that there was an excellent attendance to mark the event.

Testing Apparatus for Refractories

Several papers of technical interest were down on the agenda, the first of these being a joint one by Mr. A. E. J. Vickers and Mr. E. A. Bell, describ­ing an apparatus for investigating the corrosive action of slag upon refractory materials.

The purpose of the apparatus, said the authors, was to enable a semi-technical investigation to be made of the action of specific slags, glasses or dusts on refractory materials. It had proved of great use in this work, and had aroused so much interest among those manufacturers who had seen it, that they had been led to believe that a complete de­scription of its assembly and method of operation would be of practical use to the glass and ceramic interests.

The work in question had been carried out in the Ceramic Research Laboratory at Billingham, and the authors wished to thank the directors of Imperial Chemical Industries, Ltd., for their permission to publish a description of the work and the results.

After describing the new apparatus in detail the authors concluded by saying that it was not put forward as a complete solution of the problem of determining the slag resistance of refractory materials, but as a convenient semi-technical ap­paratus which had proved, and was proving, of great value in enabling them to ascertain which particu­lar types of bricks would best withstand certain con­ditions of chemical corrosion at high temperatures.

The paper gave rise to an interesting discussion.

Decolorising Problems

The second paper presented, which was by Mr. A. Ally, M.Sc. and Prof. W. E. S. Turner, was entitled: “The Influence of Iron Oxide, Carbon, Sulphur and Selenium in Colouring Soda-Lime-Silica Glasses.”

A brief introduction to the work which has been performed at Sheffield in connection with this study was given by Prof. Turner, who said that the sub­ject matter would no doubt be of particular interest to those who had to do with the production of amber glass.

It was rather strange to find that carbon, which for generations had been added to glass in an im­pure or admixed form — as, for example, in the form of sugar or oatmeal — to produce brown colours, failed to produce any colour at all when it was added pure.

It could also be shown that the sulphur which was used to produce certain types of yellow glass failed to produce the result desired when it was used as pure sulphur; and even carbon and sulphur together, when pure, failed to produce any colouring.

The secret seemed to lie in the fusing of the materials in relation to the iron content of the glass.

Experiments which would be described later by Mr. Ally would show how the yellow amber colour fell away in tint as the amount of iron oxide in the glass was reduced down to a very small quantity.

Some more recent experiments had had to do with selenium, added to glass in a pure state, and even here it would be shown by Mr. Ally that, when adding as much as 1 per cent. of selenium, it was difficult to produce any colour in the glass except in the very early stages.

Summary of Results.

Mr. Ally then outlined the work which had been done on this subject and gave the following summary of the findings:—

Regarding the colours produced by carbon and sulphur in glasses made from specially purified raw materials and the influence of iron upon the same, the following tentative statements can be given from the studies made so far in the Department of Glass Technology at Sheffield:—

  1. Carbon, in the absence of sulphur, does not impart any colour to soda-lime-silica glasses when the alkali content is 15 or 30 per cent.
  2. Sulphur and alkali and lime compounds of sulphur, such as the sulphides and sulphates, do not give any colour to soda-lime-silica glasses in the absence of carbon.
  3. Even in the presence of carbon, sulphur and its compounds give practically no colour to soda-lime-silica glasses.
  4. No amber colour can be obtained by carbon and sulphur. This is a corollary of the statements just preceding.
  5. Iron exerts a profound influence in the produc­tion of brown and amber colours attributed to car­bon and sulphur.

In addition, said Mr. Ally, the iron exerts a very intensive action in the colours that are produced by selenium.

This paper also led to a brisk discussion.

Glass Melting Studies

The third paper was presented by Mr. W. Maskell, B.Sc, and Prof. W. E. S. Turner, under the title: “The Decomposition of Sodium Nitrate and its Reaction with Silica.”

Prof. Turner explained that this paper simply recounted the work of yet one more stage in the whole series of investigations which is being pro­ceeded with in order that a more complete picture may be built up of what really happens when glass

 

Page 981 Pottery Gazette and Glass Trade Review, August 1935

Modern Art Glass

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THOS. WEBB and SONS

Webb’s Crystal Glass Co. Ltd.

A hundred years’ experience is behind the making of this piece of glass. Designed by Horn. Folkes, A.R.I.B.A., it combines that freshness of the modern idea with the stability of sound reputation. All the knowledge and feeling for craftsmanship, the fine traditions of our house give you exclusive glass at competitive prices.

Dennis Glass Works, Stourbridge London Showrooms: 26 Hatton Garden, E.C.1

Representatives abroad: AUSTRALIA, John Shorter Ltd., 193 Clarence Street, Sydney CANADA, H. M. S. Parsons, 60/62 Front Street West, Toronto. SOUTH AFRICA, J. A. Thorn, 45/46 Moseley Buildings, President Street, Johannesburg. U.S.A., William S. Pitcairn, 104 Fifth Avenue, New York. CHINA, Harvey Cook & Co., 134 Szechven Road, Shanghai.

 

Page 983 Pottery Gazette and Glass Trade Review, August 1935

is melted, and particularly of what happens in the early stages of the reactions between the various materials employed.

Although sodium nitrate was not one of the major materials used in glass-making it was frequently added for a specific purpose; it was an oxidising material and one that was very easily fusible; in fact, it was the most readily fusible material of all.

It was found, Prof. Turner continued, that at the fusing temperature of sodium nitrate, 318 deg. C, when it mixed with the silica and the reactions began, there was no decomposition; it was not until about 400 deg. C. was reached that there was any incipient decomposition.

The subsequent decomposition had been studied in terms of time and temperature and the decom­position rates determined. In the course of the reaction an intermediate product was formed — sodium nitrate; this then proceeded to break up and give off oxygen and nitrogen.

Technically the important point ascertained was that the action of sodium nitrate differed from that of sodium carbonate in that there was no reaction in the solid state, and this probably accounted for what they all knew happened in practice, namely, that sodium nitrate was a material which stimulated fusion in the melting down of the batch to a greater degree than the various other alkaline materials employed in glass-making.

It was announced by the Chairman that the next meeting of the Society will be held in Sheffield in October.

London Section

On Saturday, June 29, the London Section of the Society of Glass Technology spent a most enjoyable day in Oxford. In delightful weather members and their guests met at the factory of Frank Cooper, Ltd., where, under the guidance of Captain W. F. Cooper and his daughter, they saw for themselves how " Oxford " marmalade is made. This old-estab­lished firm was founded by Captain Cooper's mother nearly eighty years ago, and the marmalade is to­day made entirely by hand. The visit was there­fore of the very greatest interest.

Luncheon followed at the Clarendon Hotel, Cap­tain Cooper and Miss Cooper being guests of the Section. Unfortunatelv, owing to illness in his family, Mr. F. T. Holbrow, Secretary of the City of Oxford Publicity Board, who had arranged the outing, was prevented at the last moment from being with the party. He was represented by Mr. H. F. Hill, who later acted as guide.

The party then proceeded to the Divinity School, Bodleian Library, New College, Magdalen College, and thence through Christ Church Meadow to the Cathedral. With the exception of the Bodleian Library, the interior of each of the buildings was inspected, and a most interesting description of the outstanding points was given by Mr. Hill. In addi­tion, Mr. Eric G. Turner, son of Professor W. E. S. Turner, who is at present at Magdalen College, described for the benefit of members some of the features of this College. The value of the visit was considerably enhanced by the services of these two gentlemen.

A Bristol Display

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A special window display of Bristol tableware shown by Brights, Queen’s Road, Bristol. The window dresser responsible for the lay-out was Mr. R. N. Lethbridge.

It shows nothing but Pountney’s tableware, and the shape is the “Dorland.”

The window dresser believes in “solo” displays. Previously he had one devoted to Shelley tea and dinner services, and the Pountney window was followed by a “Queen’s Green” display.

 

Page 983 Pottery Gazette and Glass Trade Review, August 1935

Page 984 left column: Furnivals Potters

Page 984 right column: Scott, Greenwood & Son. A Handbook on Pottery and Glassware