Spode An Iconic Brand

he year 2016 will mark an important milestone in Chinese , decorated in blue and white, was the history of Stoke-on-Trent: the 200th becoming increasingly difficult to obtain. In 1784, in anniversary of ’s iconic ‘Blue Italian’ response to this opportunity, Josiah developed a Trange of china. But it was over 40 years technique of designs engraved on earlier, in 1770, that I (1733-1797) copper plates. The famous Willow collection was founded his company. His skill and the result. The iconic Blue Italian pattern followed dedication led to two major achievements that in 1816. would redefine the pottery industry: the development of a superior formula for fine bone Josiah and his son had also perfected the recipe china, and the perfection of blue under-glaze printing. for fine – a formula that redefined the pottery industry. Brilliant white and translucent, Josiah began his career in the industry at the age of 16. Spode’s bone china inspired new designs and finishes. After working for many of the best potters in the area, Josiah It was of superior quality and strong, whilst looking set up his own small pottery factory in 1760 and in 1770 extremely delicate. The formula made the Spode name established the Spode pottery company. Buying land next to the internationally famous. factory, Josiah was able to make full use of the nearby canal, allowing raw materials to be brought in, and finished goods out. On his father's death in 1797, Josiah II returned from London to In 1778, Josiah sent his son, Josiah II, to London to open a run the Spode business in Stoke- showroom and shop. Spode now had direct information about on-Trent. He built cottage homes the wealthy customer base in London. As a consequence for his factory workers in , Spode was able to design and manufacture items that a village next to Stoke, where he customers actually wanted. also built his own home which he named The Mount. He also donated money towards the rebuilding of the church in Stoke where he was senior churchwarden.

Top: Founder, Josiah Spode. Left: Blue Italian is one of the collections that secured Spode's reputation as a leader in the ceramic industry. Above right: A backstamp for Blue Italian with the new Spode logo and ‘Made in ’. Below: Many items in Blue Italian are now being manufactured at Portmeirion Group’s factory in Stoke-on-Trent.

118 In July 2013 Spode also celebrated the birth of Prince George with a commemorative range from Blue Room.

For a more contemporary look updated ranges now also include Delamere Rural, Bouquet and Lakeside.

The Portmeirion Group acquired the Spode brand in 2009. The Group has brought the manufacture of many items in Spode’s iconic catalogue back to Stoke-on- Trent. Now items in the classic Blue Italian collection and Woodland range can be seen progressing through at least 20 pairs of hands in Portmeirion Group’s factory.

Portmeirion Group is Ceramic slabs were laid at the cornerstones of the church which delighted to have become the were inscribed “transmit to generations far remote invaluable custodian of this great British name, which memorials of the perfection to which the Potter's Art in the two centuries ago found the ‘formula for neighbourhood had arrived in the early 19th century”. success’ and inspired a whole industry. When Josiah II himself died in 1827 he was buried with his father at St Peter’s Church. Above left Spode’s Christmas Tree Gold Tea Pot, Cream Jug Josiah II’s second son, Josiah III (1777-1829), had retired from and Sugar Bowl. Right: Part of the business at the age of 38, but he returned 12 years later to the Woodland range. Below: The run the company after his father’s death. Tragically, Josiah III Blue Room Royal Baby range to died suddenly at the family home just two years later. celebrate the birth of Prince George.

In 1833 the company was sold to W. T. Copeland and Garrett. It remained in the Copeland family until 1966. Despite changes in ownership the company today still reflects Spode’s original ethos whilst also reflecting both traditional and contemporary design.

Loved for its nostalgia and warm recollections of Christmases past, Christmas Tree is one of the world’s best known holiday designs since its introduction in 1938. Each season sees wonderful new introductions for collectors both old and new. In 2013 a 75th Anniversary Christmas Tree mug added a distinctive charm to every table. Spode also released a beautiful teapot, sugar and creamer in the 75th Anniversary Gold Collection.

To commemorate the 60th anniversary of the Coronation of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Spode created two pieces to mark the occasion. Both were available only in 2013, making them a keepsake for generations to come.

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