Extensive Moorcroft Pottery collection headlines Chilcotts October sale

A substantial collection of Moorcroft Pottery in superb condition will be a major feature of Chilcotts Auctioneers’ sale on October 11 in Honiton. The collection showcases a wide range of designs from the pottery’s long history.

William Moorcroft created his first pieces in the 1890s whilst working at James Macintyre & Co Ltd, going on to establish his own factory in Stoke-on-Trent in 1913. Moorcroft art pottery quickly gained a reputation for both its aesthetic and investment qualities, attracting royalty, celebrities and business leaders.

William’s son, Walter, took over as principal designer from 1945 and, over the years, many in-house and guest designers also contributed to the label, each bringing their own distinctive approach. Moorcroft Pottery is known for its signature tube-lining technique - which uses a form of clay slip to create the design outline, its exquisite jewel-like glazes and striking, nature-inspired imagery including flowers, landscapes and wildlife.

The vendor of the collection began acquiring Moorcroft in 1996 with the purchase of two pieces, a 1950s plate and 1995 vase both decorated in the ‘anemone’ pattern. From the outset she was fascinated by Moorcroft’s fine tube-lining and travelled around the country with her husband, visiting shops, fairs and sales, meeting fellow Moorcroft enthusiasts along the way.

Over time, the couple built an extensive collection including items from as early as 1905 when William Moorcroft was still at Macintyre & Co, and pottery created specifically for Liberty & Co. Being discerning buyers, they bought the only highest quality; the collection to be auctioned includes vases, plates, bowls and table lamps featuring rare, limited edition designs as well as more classic pieces based on birds, exotic flowers, toadstools and bucolic scenes.

Among the highlights is an oversized ginger jar. After spotting one in a shop in Exeter, the vendor asked a highly respected dealer in Shepton Mallet to source one for her, which he did. The piece, which stands 48cm (19in) high, is one of only ten produced in the distinctive ‘Saadian’ design, created in the early 2000s by Shirley Hayes. Inspired by an abandoned Moroccan palace, the design incorporates vibrant shades of blue, purple, mauve and green.

Moorcroft Pottery ceased trading earlier this year, although the business has since been bought back by the founder’s grandson, Will Moorcroft, who hopes to resume production soon. In the meantime, collectors have the opportunity to bid on fine examples of this distinctive pottery. The vendor says she is parting with her collection so that others can enjoy the pieces – and humorously adds that she is “fed up of dusting it.”

Auctioneer, Duncan Chilcott commented: “This is a significant collection of highly sought-after pottery with timeless appeal. Moorcroft Pottery has been popular with collectors from the beginning; the pieces suit both traditional and contemporary interiors and hold their value well.”

The sale comprises 88 individual lots of Moorcroft Pottery, 67 of which are from this single vendor, with estimates ranging from £40–£60 up to £2,000–£4,000, plus 25 percent buyer’s premium.

The auction takes place at the Dolphin Saleroom, Honiton High Street, on October 11 at 10am. Viewing is available from October 6–10, and the online catalogue can be accessed via the Chilcotts website, where details of online bidding are also provided.