Wedgwood Celebrating 250 Years

Editorial

When: 1 Sep 2009-11 July 2010
Where: NGV International
Details: NGV International 8620-2222

When you think of Wedgwood, you think of white relief images, usually depicting a Classical Greek image on blue china. It's immediately recognisable and even iconic and for that reason, Wedgwood is one of the most famous and admired decorative arts creators in the world. It's celebrating its 250th anniversary in 2009 and to commemorate that milestone, the National Gallery of Victoria is displaying over 70 works from its own Wedgwood holdings.

Best known for its innovative jasper ware - matt coloured stoneware decorated with white ornamentation - Wedgwood became a leading figure in neo-classical taste in the 18th century. Josiah Wedgwood established his first pottery studio in Staffordshire in 1759 and the factory continued to grow as its designs became more popular. It was Wedgwood's experimentation, his understanding of fashion trends and his entrepreneurial skills that made him one of the most memorable and enduring ceramic manufacturers of his time. His factory survived declining fortunes in the 1840s and is now known for its high quality table and ornamental wares.

The NGV is naturally very proud to be hosting this exhibition, as it has one of the world's best collection of Wedgwood, charting its history and craftsmanship over the years, thanks to the benefactors Keith and Norma Deutsher.

Tim Hunter, Citysearch