19th century Pratt Ware (F. & R. Pratt & Co.,) (England) pot lids, figures and other wares

Pratt Ware refers to English pottery produced in the 19th century by the F. & R. Pratt & Co. factory, located in Fenton, Staffordshire. The company was founded by Felix Pratt and his son Richard in the early 19th century and gained recognition for its high-quality pottery. Pratt Ware is known for its distinctive style, which often featured transfer-printed designs in bright colours, depicting scenes from literature, mythology, landscapes, or historical events. These designs were often applied to practical items such as plates, jugs, bowls, and tiles. However, one of the most sought-after and collectible aspects of more... Pratt Ware is the pot lids. Pot lids were small ceramic discs that were initially created to seal and preserve the contents of jars containing ointments, pomades, and other substances. Over time, pot lids became more decorative and started featuring intricate transfer-printed designs. These designs typically depicted various subjects like famous people, sporting events, animals, and humorous scenes.

The collecting of 19th-century English Pratt Ware and pot lids began in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when individuals recognized the historical and artistic value of these ceramics. As the popularity of collecting antiques grew, enthusiasts started to seek out and acquire examples of Pratt Ware and pot lids. The distinctive designs, craftsmanship, and historical significance of these pieces contributed to their appeal among collectors. These items are appreciated for their historical importance, artistic value, and the insight they provide into the social and cultural aspects of the 19th century.

F. & R. Pratt & Co. Ltd., an earthenware manufacturer at the Fenton Potteries, High St, Fenton was founded in circa 1818 by brothers Felix Edward Pratt and Richard Pratt. In the 19th century, the Pratt name was associated with the fine, usually multi-coloured, transfer printed engravings used to decorate the lids of earthenware pots used for food, pharmaceutical products and toiletries. The business also produced domestic earthenware including relief moulded earthenware (especially jugs) and tableware with underglaze, multi-coloured decoration (‘Prattware’).

Whilst Felix Pratt was the commercial driving force behind the business, the artist was a Jesse Austin more... who joined Pratt in the early-1840. He was an accomplished watercolour artist and engraver and over nearly 40 years, the business produced over 550 poly chrome prints used to decorate the now well known pot lids.

Collecting the Pratt polychrome pot lids became very fashionable in the 1920s and hundreds of thousands were manufactured, but of those that remain the majority are in poor or indifferent condition. Undamaged pot lids with crisp, clear prints are now rarely seen and are expensive – and this has encouraged copyists and repairers into the market.

The company went through a number of ownership changes from 1916, until 1967 when it was purchased by Wedgwood who in the process acquired the right to the Pratt name and patterns. less...