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Double Ribbed Martin Brothers Lustre vase – June 1907

For sale is this really interesting example of Edwin and Walter Martins’ organic pottery work. The vase is of subtle bulbous form, with a multitude of thin horizontal ribs and then large pronouced vertical ribs from the waist to the top rim. The Brothers have then applied a rich deep brown / dark grey / black colour with metallic oxide to give a wonderful lustre to the piece. In the photographs, observe the different angles where we try and illustrate the effect. This is a wonderful example of their work and is a most subtle, yet highly competent execution.

Condition and Provenance

The vase is in excellent original condition, with no chips, cracks, or repairs. A couple of specks on the main body of the vase are small imperfections during the manufacture of the vase. The signature beneath is 100% consistent with period pieces and is marked “6-1907, Martin Bros, London & Southall”, again entirely consistent and authentic. See the V&A Museum picture below of a virtually identical example from the same year by Edwin.

For sale we have this outstanding quality Hannah Barlow biscuit barrel decorated with six cats in various states from relaxation to spats! The navy sgraffito work is some of the best we’ve seen and is a testament to her skills as a master ceramicist at Doulton Lambeth. This piece looks so good we decided to display it for a couple of years before deciding to put it up for sale. The barrel boasts one large work of a sleeping cat, two cats having a stand-off spat, and three others sitting and socialising. Such as endearing piece. The top and bottom borders are bands of mini florettes and blue rush groups repeated all the way around. Two blue lug handles finish the effect on either side.

Condition wise, there are a few things to mention here. First, and rather obviously, the lid has gone missing and this is an old replacement lid that came with the piece when we acquired it. The original lid would have been stoneware. Secondly, the top rim has two nibbles (one 5mm and the other 1mm) and the top inside rim also has two nibbles (one 8mm and the other 5mm). The base edge has one 2mm nibble. Other than this, there are no other cracks, chips or any restoration to the piece. The photos clearly show the condition. Beneath, we have Hannah Barlows “HBB” monogram together with the shape code 498 and the Doulton Lambeth cog and “England” present and correct. This places the production of the piece around the early 1890s.

If as a collector you can look past the lid and a few nibbles to the tremendous quality of this example, this is a piece that will give you a lot of enjoy.

Offered for sale is this very early 1871-1872 gourd vase by the famous Arthur Barlow. Arthur was brother to the famous Hannah Barlow. Extremely disabled from an accident as a child, Arthur Barlow found his purpose and explored his gifts at Doulton Lambeth. He became one of the sought after artists representing often the best of the early 1870s work. He died young in 1877, so his work is rare.

William Moorcroft Pomegranate Vase (Circa mid-1920s)

Presenting a fine William Moorcroft vase in the highly sought-after Pomegranate pattern, dating to the mid-1920s. Measuring 13cm in height and 9.5cm in width, the vessel features a well-proportioned baluster form with a gently flared rim and a sweeping circular foot. The piece survives in excellent original condition, completely free from chips, cracks, or restoration.

The tube-lined decoration displays the iconic Pomegranate design, featuring a continuous frieze of both whole and open fruit revealing intricately detailed seeds. These are interspersed with lush clusters of rounded berries and trailing autumnal foliage. The vibrant ochre, russet, and deep crimson tones of the pomegranates contrast strikingly against the characteristic inky cobalt blue ground, which transitions subtly to a mottled greenish-ochre toward the upper rim. The high-gloss glaze remains rich and reflective, enhancing the depth of the metallic oxide colors.

The underside displays the impressed factory marks “MOORCROFT” and “MADE IN ENGLAND”, alongside William Moorcroft’s painted “WM” flash monogram in blue, confirming its authentic mid-1920s production period.

Rare Doulton Lambeth Agate Ware Jug with Sterling Silver Rim, Dated 1892
A highly unusual and artistically rich piece from Doulton’s experimental Agate Ware range

This exceptional Doulton Lambeth Agate Ware jug, standing 20cm tall, is a rare and beautiful example of one of the studio’s most elusive ceramic techniques. Dated 1892, it combines striking form, complex surface decoration, and a unique blend of materials that exemplify the innovation and craftsmanship of late 19th-century Doulton.

The jug is of tapered form, with a rich marbling of variegated brown clay tones characteristic of agate ware—a technique involving the mixing of coloured clays to produce flowing, stone-like patterns across the surface. These naturalistic swirls serve as a dynamic backdrop for a wealth of textural and decorative detail.

The surface features fine vertical linear striations, adding subtle texture, and is punctuated by zigzag miniature impressed motifs that create rhythmic surface interest. Two bold, raised wicker-effect bands—one encircling the base and another just below the collar—add further structure and visual weight to the form. A particularly striking feature is the flamboyant, flared handle, sculpturally sweeping from shoulder to rim with a confident, organic curve.

Crowning the jug is a solid sterling silver mount, hallmarked for London, 1892, and made by the respected silversmiths Cornelius Desormeaux Saunders & James Francis Hollings (Frank) Shepherd. The addition of silver not only elevates the piece but situates it firmly within the decorative luxury market of the time.

To the base are impressed marks including the Doulton Lambeth cogwheel stamp, “England”, the series number 7191, and the incised monogram of decorator Elizabeth Atkins, one of the documented artists of the period.

Agate Ware pieces from Doulton are exceedingly scarce, produced only in limited quantities and rarely seen on the open market today. Their technical difficulty and aesthetic complexity make them among the most desirable of all Lambeth studio wares.

A superb and tactile piece with exceptional presence—this jug would make a standout addition to any advanced collection of Victorian art pottery.

Dimensions: 20cm tall
Condition: Excellent with no restoration
Marks: Doulton Lambeth stamp, “England”, 7191, silver hallmarks (London, 1892), maker’s mark (CS over FS), Elizabeth Atkins monogram

For sale is a really well executed early Doulton Lambeth Ewer by renowned artist George Tinworth. A classical period shape emboldened by a vibrant blue and then adorned with Tinworth’s “Seaweed Scroll” design, framed to the top and bottom with a contrasting ribbed borders. The slender curved handle carries further scrollwork to its outer surface to bring further aesthetic to this wonderful piece of history.

To the main body, we have bold “GT” initials for George Tinworth. Beneath, we have the Doulton Lambeth stamp dating the ewer to 1879 with two other potter and assistant signatures. The Ewer is in outstanding original condition and will delight any serious early Doulton or Arts & Crafts collectors!

For sale is this superb Martin Brothers Aquatic Fish vase which is a striking example of their exceptional artistry. The vase features banding at both the top and bottom, framing the whimsical scene. The main part of the vase displays eight fish, each with a whimsical expression and in different poses. These fish are set against a blue and cream background, creating a captivating seawater effect. Interspersed among the fish are seaweed and shells, adding to the aquatic theme. This vase, likely made by Robert Wallace Martin, showcases the exceptional skill of the Martin Brothers beautifully.

For sale is this diminutive vase, likely to have been made by Edwin Martin, the youngest of the Martin Brothers. This vase is tiny  – 4cm tall by 3.75cm wide! In low light, one might mistake it as being black, but under light a strong blue shows through. With a delicate little top rim, and traditional rounded shape, it really is a vase in miniature!

In 1873, Arthur Barlow crafted a remarkable Doulton Lambeth ewer, a testament to his exceptional skill and artistic vision. This ewer, notable for its generous proportions, is adorned with intricate scrolling beadwork, florette roundels, and elegant foliate designs. Characteristic of Barlow’s style, it features his distinctive banding in the background, adding depth and texture to the piece. The top of the ewer is crowned with a solid sterling silver lid, which is original and was crafted in London in 1873 by the esteemed silversmiths Richards & Brown.

The condition of this ewer is impeccable; it remains in its original state with no chips, cracks, or restoration, preserving its historical and aesthetic value. Beneath the foot of the ewer, one can find Arthur Barlow’s signature alongside the Doulton Lambeth oval stamp, authenticating its origin and craftsmanship.

Early Doulton Lambeth Stoneware Jug by Arthur Barlow, dated 1874, with Silver Mounts and Hinged Lid

This exceptional jug, produced in 1874, is a particularly fine example of Arthur Barlow’s mature decorative style. The elegant ovoid body rises to a tall, tapering neck and is fitted with an ornate silver-mounted hinged cover, its repoussé decoration complementing the flowing organic forms of the pottery beneath. The substantial swept handle provides a graceful counterbalance to the elongated neck while lending the piece a refined architectural silhouette.

Provenance & Condition

The underside retains its full complement of factory marks, including the impressed Doulton Lambeth oval stamp with the date 1874, Arthur Barlow’s impressed “ABB” artist’s initials, together with the relevant assistant decorators’ marks, firmly authenticating its early production and studio attribution.

The jug is presented in excellent overall condition, displaying no significant issues to the stoneware body or decoration. The silver-mounted hinged cover is secure, and it is noted that adhesive has been used at some point in the past to reinforce the fitting of the silver lid to the ceramic top rim. This is a minor historic restoration that does not detract from the piece’s outstanding decorative appearance or its importance as an early, fully documented work by one of Doulton Lambeth’s most celebrated artists.

What exactly is it?

For sale is this highly unusual and grotesque Martin Brothers reptile sitting on top of an upside down mushroom. Intricately constructed with a body hideous to behold, we have not seen another quite like this piece. The creature, with almost human like face, has a hand to its mouth like it is whistling, whilst its menacing double-taloned feet grip the underside of the mushroom. The body is contorted and detailed as if scaly, the texture brought out by blue against the otherwise pale cream colourway. The creature has a long tail, going down to the base of the mushroom stem and then curling around. The mushroom has long painted green strokes.

Which brother made it?

Likely to have been made by the brother most famed for grotesque, whimsical and macabre creations, Robert Wallace Martin.

Early R.W. Martin Salt-Glazed Mustard Pot (April 1874)

This historically significant salt-glazed mustard pot, measuring 9cm in height and width, represents a rare early work by Robert Wallace Martin. Dated to April 1874, the piece features a squat, bulbous body transitioning to a structured neck and a domed lid with a sculpted finial. It retains its original pewter metal hinge mount, complete with a traditional spoon aperture.

The vessel is heavily decorated, utilizing a deep cobalt blue glaze that contrasts sharply with the textured buff stoneware ground. The exterior displays a vigorous, deeply incised pattern of stylized foliate and fern-like motifs around the lower body. This is complemented by a continuous band of repeating wavy arches at the neck and radiating petal designs upon the lid.

The underside bears the clear, incised signature “R W Martin”, alongside the pattern code “A36” and the date “4-74”, firmly placing its production in the pivotal early months of Wallace’s independent career.

Condition & Restoration Opportunity: While the main body, metal mount, and lid present strongly, the angular handle has sustained four breaks and currently exhibits old, crude adhesive repairs. This presents an excellent, straightforward project for a professional ceramic restorer or a dedicated collector. Once sympathetically restored, this piece will stand as a highly displayable and historically important 1870s artifact.

For sale is a very early Doulton Lambeth jug by their most famous artist, George Tinworth. Dated 1874, in our opinion this piece represents a rarer and  finer quality work by Tinworth. Unusually, the Seaweed Scroll work is absent on this piece, as George has decided to work towards a different effect. He has used the beading which is large and raised (sharp to the touch) to create four horizon borders. He has then crossed diagonal lines to create a diamond criss-cross effect. Within each diamond segment is then decorated blue bulbous forms which house intricate florette roundels to the centre diamonds, and beads to the smaller areas. The background is coloured to mid-brown.

Beneath, the jug is stamped with the early oval Doulton Lambeth mark and dated 1874. Further it has George’s monogram clearly engraved and that of an assistant or thrower. The jug is in fabulous condition, with only a very minor professional, invisible restoration to a small top rim chip. The quality of this jug will delight any serious early Doulton or Arts & Crafts collectors!

For sale is this stunning, early Spanish pattern trumpet vase by William Moorcroft. Decorated with an abundance of flowers and foliage using reds, oranges and greens to fantastic effect, this small vase is truly something to behold. The decoration begins from the vases hip, with flowers arranged around the vase. The inside of the top rim is similarly decorated with flower buds to really make the vase pop with colour and elegance.

The vase presents superbly throughout. To note is an area of invisible restoration beneath the hip and also a very fine small hairline to the top rim. Close examination reveals the hairline occurred whilst the vase was new and before age crazing occurred. This is not visible on display and has to be carefully looked for. The

Martin Brothers Imp playing the Blocks – Robert Wallace Martin

For sale is this delightful and cheeky looking imp playing the blocks. It is in excellent condition, with a very minor old “touch in” to the tip of the block instrument. Otherwise it is in wonderful original condition. It hails from the prominent collection of Barry Stock, a well known collector based out of the UK.

The Martin Brothers Imps are a fascinating and highly collectible series of grotesque figures, each one depicting a whimsical imp engaged in playing various musical instruments. These figures, created by the renowned Martin Brothers, are celebrated for their unique blend of humor, artistry, and intricate craftsmanship. The Martin Brothers—Robert Wallace Martin, Edwin Martin, Walter Martin, and Charles Martin—were pioneers in the field of ceramic art during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. They are best known for their imaginative and often eccentric creations, which have garnered a dedicated following among collectors and art enthusiasts.

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.

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.

For sale we have an early beautiful Doulton Lambeth ewer by rare artist Emily J Edwards, dating to 1875. The design work shows early Tinworth influences, however Emily was a very talented artist and brings her own creativity to the piece. Holly leaves hanging from beaded banding, and then a mix of florals and angular motifs to make this an impressive piece. The dotted collars at the base of the neck show influences from Arthur Barlow too, Adorned with a pewter lid, this piece is as authentic and original as they come. A lovely piece for a rare artist who is much rarer to find than other artists due to her short tenure.

The jug is free from any chips, cracks or restoration. The pewter rim is original. Beneath we have Emily’s signature, together with the marks of the assistant and thrower and the Doulton Lambeth oval stamp with the date 1875.