The Burmantofts of Saltaire has a certain ring to it, don’t you think?
Burmantofts refers to ceramics made by the Burmantoft Pottery Company in the Leeds district of the same name. The company was well known for large pots with dragons and snakes and is as popular today as it was in Victorian times. Their work was a re-interpretation of 16th century French Palissy ware. (I continue to be surprised at the instantly forgettable facts I uncover sometimes when I blog).
I had never heard of it until our visit this week to Salts Mill in the UNESCO Heritage Site of Saltaire Village in Yorkshire. The pieces on display in the downstairs gallery/shop are wonderful in their own right, but when viewed in a context where they are surrounded by David Hockney original drawings and paintings the whole experience is truly amazing.
One lady I was talking to there expressed it in these words : “I’d love to be locked in here forever”. And that sums it really, especially as there is a coffee shop, a restaurant and a gallery of more of Hockney’s work upstairs.
The vases in these pictures are from the period 1881-1904 and belong to a private collection.
A Very Big Blue Vase ©HelenBushe
Three Burmantofts at a Window ©HelenBushe
Burmantoft Collection ©HelenBushe
Solo Burmantoft ©HelenBushe
10 Comments
Diane · 19 March 2018 at 16:55
Hello, Helen, I love your photos and comments – thank you for sharing them. I’m doing research on Burmantoft pottery for a degree and wonder if you know what other than the huge faience vase was on display in the 1887 exhibition?
HMB · 5 April 2018 at 19:29
Hi Diane. Im pleased that you like my Burmantoft pictures. Im afraid I have no more info about these wonderful creations.Perhaps someone at Salts Mill might be able to help you. Good luck with the research.
Marie · 9 July 2016 at 07:49
You have a great eye for colour.
HMB · 9 July 2016 at 07:53
Oh, thank you Marie, you’ve made my day.
Amy · 8 July 2016 at 17:13
Magnificent!! Thank you for sharing these beautiful images, Helen!
HMB · 8 July 2016 at 17:14
Thank you Amy
Laurie Graves · 8 July 2016 at 13:34
Wow! Memorable, indeed.
HMB · 8 July 2016 at 13:35
Yes, indeed. Thanks for visiting. Have a good weekend.
Manja Mexi Movie · 8 July 2016 at 13:19
Amazing place. Forever seems short suddenly. 🙂
HMB · 8 July 2016 at 13:20
Yes I know what you mean. Thanks for visiting.