Wedgwood was founded by Josiah Wedgwood in 1759 and quickly gained popularity due to the high quality of its products. In the 18th–19th centuries, Wedgwood became one of the leaders in the production of ceramics and porcelain.
In 1765, Wedgwood created service samples at his factory that attracted the interest of the English queen, after which the work of Wedgwood factories gained the reputation of “royal goods”.
Wedgwood is credited with the most revolutionary discoveries of the 18th century in the field of ceramic production. He developed unique ceramic compositions based on stoneware — cream (Queen’s Ware – 1762), basalt (Black Basalt – 1768) and jasper (Jasper – 1774). Products made from cream (creamy) mass were light and elegant. At that time, they became an alternative to expensive porcelain.
Wedgwood pottery is a special type of pottery known for its matte unglazed surface, also known as jasper or velvet. “Velvet porcelain” was first developed by Josiah Wedgwood in the 1770s-1780s. It was produced in several different colors, the most famous being blue, which was called Wedgwood Blue. On a plain, soft matte background, usually blue, the finest white reliefs in Greco-Roman style were applied and fixed during the firing process.
The technique of the relief pattern resembled cameo carving on multi-layered ornamental stones. When forming the relief decor, the main rule was taken into account – it had to fit into the frieze composition and be directed along the plane. Wedgwood pottery had increased strength and was distinguished by its elegant artistic design. Jasper mass is not the only invention of the master. His name is also associated with: the production of a pyrometer – a device that allows you to measure the exact temperature in kilns for firing ceramic products, experiments with colored glazes and much more.
Now the Wedgwood company is part of the Waterford Wedgwood group and is one of the outstanding international premium brands in the world. Wedgwood products are part of the national pride of Great Britain.
