Robert Heron Wemyss Ware porter tankard mug in 'cabbage roses' pattern c1910
A stunning ‘cabbage–rose’ Wemyss ware porter mug circa 1910. This has a wonderfully idiosyncratic strap handle.
The ‘Fife Pottery’ or ‘Gallatown Pottery’ was founded in 1817 by Archibald and Andrew Grey. In 1850 the pottery was taken over by Robert Heron (1833-1906). Around 1880 they began branding their pottery as ‘Wemyss ware’ - in honour of the Wemyss family who were avid and lucrative patrons.
In 1882 Robert Heron brought Karel Nekola (c1857-1915), a skilled decorator, over from Bohemia. He was a master of the ‘cabbage rose’ pattern - which became synonymous with Wemyss. The late Queen Mother (Elizabeth) was a great fan of Wemyss, and is said to have amassed one of the largest private collections of the pottery. It is now probably the most highly collectable and sought-after Scottish pottery, particularly the ‘cabbage-rose’ pattern.
The decoration on this mug is of such high quality that it is almost certainly decorated by Karel Nekola.
Dimensions: 11cm diameter at rim x 17cm across handle x 14.2cm high. Weight: 410gm
Condition: Excellent with no restoration or damage. Fine overall even glaze crazing which is typical on Wemyss. Stunning antique piece of quintessential Scottish pottery.