Essexware pottery (Australia) ceramics

Essexware pottery is a type of Australian pottery produced by Gordon and Irene Dunstan in Leura, Blue Mountains, New South Wales, from 1945 to 1976. The pottery is known for its distinctive Aboriginal-inspired designs, which were often hand-painted on a black or brown glaze.

Gordon Dunstan was a self-taught potter who learned his craft from books and magazines. He was also influenced by the work of other Australian potters of the time, such as Reginald G. Murray and Hans Coper. In 1945, Dunstan and his wife Irene established Essexware pottery in a small garage workshop behind their home in Leura.

The Dunstans were inspired by the Aboriginal art of the Blue Mountains region, and they incorporated many Aboriginal motifs into their pottery designs. They also used traditional Aboriginal techniques, such as sgraffito and burnishing. Essexware pottery was quickly recognized for its high quality and unique designs, and more... it became popular with collectors and tourists.

In the 1950s and 1960s, Essexware pottery was exhibited at major trade fairs and exhibitions in Australia and overseas. The Dunstans also received commissions from government agencies and private companies. In 1960, they were commissioned to produce a set of dinnerware for the Prime Minister of Australia. In 1976 Gordon and Irene Dunstan retired, and Essexware pottery ceased production. less...