Antique Arts & Crafts Pottery Candleholder | Wardle & Co

£260.00

The Story

This exceptional pottery candleholder is a rare survivor of the late Victorian Arts & Crafts movement. Manufactured by Wardle & Co in Stoke-on-Trent (circa 1890–1900), it embodies the era’s reaction against industrial mass production by emphasizing handcrafted beauty. During this period, the renowned ceramicist Frederick Hurten Rhead served as Art Director at Wardle, heavily influencing their "art ware" production with his expressive, avant-garde style.

The Details

  • Dimensions: 13.5cm H x 12cm Base Diameter

  • Capacity: Accommodates a standard taper candle up to 2.8cm.

  • Design: Twin-handled form with a scalloped candle cup and base.

  • Palette: Rich, hand-painted tones of ochre, brick-red, black, and teal.

  • Marks: Fully marked on the base with an incised "Wardle" and Registration No. 715745.

  • Condition: Excellent antique condition; free of chips, damage, or significant wear.

Why It’s Special

The Arts & Crafts movement (c. 1880–1920) was led by figures like William Morris and John Ruskin, who believed that functional objects should also be works of art. This piece is a "museum quality" example of that philosophy. The connection to the Rhead family—one of the most famous dynasties in British ceramic history—adds significant provenance for collectors of Staffordshire pottery.

Shipping & Sustainability

  • 100% plastic-free, recyclable, and biodegradable packaging.

  • U.K. Delivery: Sent via FREE Royal Mail Tracked 48 service.

The Story

This exceptional pottery candleholder is a rare survivor of the late Victorian Arts & Crafts movement. Manufactured by Wardle & Co in Stoke-on-Trent (circa 1890–1900), it embodies the era’s reaction against industrial mass production by emphasizing handcrafted beauty. During this period, the renowned ceramicist Frederick Hurten Rhead served as Art Director at Wardle, heavily influencing their "art ware" production with his expressive, avant-garde style.

The Details

  • Dimensions: 13.5cm H x 12cm Base Diameter

  • Capacity: Accommodates a standard taper candle up to 2.8cm.

  • Design: Twin-handled form with a scalloped candle cup and base.

  • Palette: Rich, hand-painted tones of ochre, brick-red, black, and teal.

  • Marks: Fully marked on the base with an incised "Wardle" and Registration No. 715745.

  • Condition: Excellent antique condition; free of chips, damage, or significant wear.

Why It’s Special

The Arts & Crafts movement (c. 1880–1920) was led by figures like William Morris and John Ruskin, who believed that functional objects should also be works of art. This piece is a "museum quality" example of that philosophy. The connection to the Rhead family—one of the most famous dynasties in British ceramic history—adds significant provenance for collectors of Staffordshire pottery.

Shipping & Sustainability

  • 100% plastic-free, recyclable, and biodegradable packaging.

  • U.K. Delivery: Sent via FREE Royal Mail Tracked 48 service.