William Moorcroft Florian Daisy Double Gourd Vase

Description

For sale we have a superb quality double-gourd Florian Daisy vase by William Moorcroft dating to around 1902. An early piece of Florian Ware in the daisy pattern, with its vibrant green and blue hues, is not just a decorative item but a testament to Moorcroft’s artistic vision and technical skill. This piece captures the essence of the Art Nouveau movement and the early 20th-century fascination with nature, making it a prized artifact from the golden age of British art pottery.

Description of the Daisy Pattern:

• Design Elements:
  • Daisy Motif: The daisy pattern features stylized daisy flowers with intricate detailing. The flowers are typically rendered with graceful, curving petals and a prominent central disc, embodying the Art Nouveau emphasis on natural forms and flowing lines.
  • Color Scheme: This particular piece uses a green and blue colorway, where the foliage and stems are depicted in varying shades of green, while the petals and background are highlighted in rich blues. The interplay of these colors creates a harmonious and vibrant effect, enhancing the organic beauty of the design.
• Glazing Technique:
  • Tube-lining: The design is outlined using a technique known as tube-lining, where raised lines of slip (liquid clay) are applied to define the pattern. This method not only adds texture but also helps in containing the colored glazes within distinct areas.
  • Lustrous Finish: The application of multiple glazes results in a lustrous, jewel-like finish that accentuates the depth and vibrancy of the colors, a hallmark of Moorcroft’s work.

Background of William Moorcroft and Florian Ware:

• William Moorcroft:
  • Early Career: William Moorcroft began his career at James MacIntyre & Co. in 1897, where he quickly gained recognition for his innovative designs and exceptional craftsmanship. His approach to pottery was heavily influenced by the Art Nouveau movement, characterized by its emphasis on natural forms and decorative motifs.
  • Establishment of His Own Studio: In 1913, Moorcroft established his own studio, continuing to develop his distinctive style and cementing his reputation as one of the leading ceramic artists of his time.
• MacIntyre and Co.:
  • Collaboration: At MacIntyre, Moorcroft was given significant creative freedom, which led to the development of the Florian Ware line. This collaboration was pivotal in shaping Moorcroft’s early career and allowed him to experiment with new techniques and designs.
• Florian Ware:
  • Introduction: Florian Ware, introduced by Moorcroft during his tenure at MacIntyre, became renowned for its tube-lined designs and rich, translucent glazes. The line was named after the Roman goddess Flora, reflecting its emphasis on floral motifs and natural beauty.
  • Significance: These pieces are now highly sought after by collectors for their artistic merit and the innovative techniques employed in their creation.
  • Museums: Museums such as th V&A have pieces similar to this in their collections. See the image below for a similar colourway piece at the V&A, and click to enter their site:

William Moorcroft dated 1898-1905

Authenticity and Condition:

In excellent original condition with no chips, cracks or prior restoration. The piece is signed “W Moorcroft Des” in green ink entirely correct for the period.