Torquay (England) ceramics

Torquay pottery is a generic term used to describe the various potteries that were established in the Torquay area of Devon, England, from around 1860 until the late 20th century. These potteries used local sources of red Devon clay to produce a wide range of wares, including art pottery, souvenir pottery, and household pottery.

The first Torquay pottery was the Watcombe Terra Cotta Clay Company, which was established in 1875 by G. J. Allen. This pottery was known for its production of art pottery, and its wares were often decorated with floral motifs. Other early Torquay potteries included the Longpark more... Pottery, the Torquay Terra-Cotta Company, and the St. Marychurch Pottery.

In the early 20th century, Torquay became increasingly popular as a tourist destination. Many potteries began producing souvenir wares, such as plates, jugs, and mugs, that were decorated with scenes of Torquay and the surrounding area. These wares were often decorated with mottoes or sayings in the local Devon dialect.

The popularity of Torquay pottery continued into the mid-20th century. However, the industry began to decline in the late 20th century, as competition from mass-produced pottery increased. The last Torquay pottery, the Royal Torquay Pottery, closed in 1982. less...

Crewenna Potteries was a pottery studio  in Nelson, New Zealand, established in 1962 by Harry and May Davis. The couple had previously run a pottery in Cornwall, England, and they brought their skills and experience with them to New Zealand. The company was known for its hand-thrown and decorated ceramics. The Davises used a variety of techniques, including stoneware, porcelain, and slipware. They also experimented with different glazes, creating a wide range of colors and finishes.

The Davises' pottery was popular with both collectors and the general public. They exhibited their work in galleries and museums around New more... Zealand, and they also sold their work through a network of retailers. Crewenna Potteries closed in 1972, but the Davises' work continues to be admired by collectors and ceramics enthusiasts. Their pottery is held in the collections of the Auckland Museum, the Canterbury Museum, and the Sarjeant Gallery in Whanganui. less...