Learn about antiques and collectables...
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Learn about and understand the items, manufacturers, designers and periods as well as the specialist terms used in describing antiques and collectables. Either click one of the letters below to list the items beginning with that letter, or click on a category on the left side of the screen to list the items under that category.
W. & T. Avery & Co.
W. & T. Avery & Co. was a British manufacturer of weighing machines. The company was founded in the early 18th century and took the name W & T Avery in 1818. The undocumented origin of the company goes back to 1730 when James Ford established the business in Digbeth. On Joseph Balden the then owner's death in 1813 William and Thomas Avery took over his scalemaking business and in 1818 renamed it W & T Avery.
The business rapidly expanded and in 1885 they owned three factories: the Atlas Works in West Bromwich, the Mill Lane Works in Birmingham and the Moat Lane Works in Digbeth. In 1891 the business became a limited company with a board of directors and in 1894 the shares were quoted on the London Stock Exchange.
W & T Avery was a pioneer in the development of weighing technology. In 1850, they introduced the first self-registering weighing machine, and in 1875, they introduced the first electric weighing machine. The company also developed a number of other innovations, including the first weighing machine for use in railway stations and the first weighing machine for use in hospitals. They were a major supplier of weighing machines to the British government. The company supplied weighing machines for use in the Royal Navy, the British Army, and the Post Office. W & T Avery also supplied weighing machines to a wide range of commercial and industrial customers, including the food and beverage industry, the chemical industry, and the mining industry.
In 1979, W & T Avery was acquired by General Electric Company. The company continued to operate under the name W & T Avery until 1993, when it was renamed Avery Berkel. Avery Berkel is now a part of the Mettler Toledo Group.
W. & T. Avery & Co. was a leading player in the development of weighing technology.
W. F. Stanley & Co.
W. F. Stanley & Co. was a precision instrument maker founded in 1847 by William Frederick Stanley in London. The company specialized in the production of surveying instruments, such as theodolites, levels, and compasses. Stanley instruments were known for their high quality and precision. In the early 20th century, Stanley of London expanded its product line to include microscopes, telescopes, and barometers. The company also began to manufacture optical instruments, such as binoculars and telescopes.
The company continued to be a leading manufacturer of precision instruments until the mid-20th century. However W. F. Stanley & Co. faced increasing competition from Japanese and German manufacturers and in 1967, the company was acquired by the British engineering company, Smiths Industries.
Smiths Industries continued to produce Stanley instruments for a few years, but the company eventually discontinued the brand. A new company named Stanley of London founded on the reputation of W. F. Stanley & Co. has been set up selling brass reproductions of the original instruments.
W.j. Sanders
For over 100 years, W.J. Sanders has produced and restored gold, silver and other metalware and is Australia's last traditional manufacturing silversmith. Based in Marrackville, Sydney, the company has been in business since 1911.
The company was founded by William James Sanders, who had trained as a silversmith in Birmingham, England before emigrating to Australia in 1894. In 1911, Sanders opened his own workshop in Sydney, where he produced high-quality silverware, including tea sets, trays, and cutlery. The company quickly gained a reputation for its craftsmanship and attention to detail, and it became one of the leading silversmiths in Australia.
During World War II, W. J. Sanders & Co. produced a range of items for the war effort, including aircraft parts and munitions. After the war, the company returned to producing silverware and expanded its range to include trophies and presentation pieces for sporting events and corporate clients.
In the 1960s and 1970s, W. J. Sanders & Co. continued to innovate and adapt to changing tastes and trends in silverware design. The company introduced new techniques and materials, such as electroplating and stainless steel, and its designs became more modern and abstract.
W. J. Sanders & Co. is still owned and operated by the Sanders family, and it continues to produce high-quality gold and silver ware for a range of clients, including embassies, corporate clients, and private collectors.
Wade Pottery
The George Wade Pottery was founded in 1810 in Burslem, England and during this early time, produced mostly bottles and related pottery items, then in the early 19th century, ceramics needs for textile mills.
In the 1920s and 30's production of figurines with a new 'cellulose' finish were produced. However the new finish proved to turn yellow and peel off with age. At the onset of W.W.II, production of all non-essential ceramic items ceased.
In the early 1950s, George Wade Pottery re-introduced their retail line of pre-war animal figurines, in boxed sets of five, marketed as 'Whimsies', and were very successful. Between 1953 and 1959 Wade produced ten sets of Whimsies for retail sale with the last five sets each having a theme.
During the 1960's Wade produced a new set miniature animals to be included as 'one free', in each box of party crackers or tea bags. And again in 1971, due to their popularity, Wade introduced a new line of Whimsies for retail sale, consisting of 60 animals in twelve sets, which was marketed progressively over the next 13 years in groups of five.
Since the 1950s, Wade has produced several hundred of these porcelain mini figurines in numerous sets. The range includes dogs, cats, birds, snow animals, pets, wildlife, farm animals, dinosaurs, nursery rhyme figures, circus figures, miniature houses, leprechauns, monks and even Disney animals.
All these figures are highly collectable and some are very valuable as they are becoming more scarce.
Wahl Eversharp
Wahl Eversharp is an historic American manufacturer, created from a split off from the Wahl Adding Machine Company in the early 20th century. It is known for producing high-quality writing instruments that were both functional and stylish and established a reputation for innovation and quality, introducing a number of new designs and features that set their pens apart from the competition.
One of the most notable innovations was the introduction of the "Eversharp" mechanical pencil in 1915. This pencil featured a unique design that allowed the lead to be advanced with a simple twist of the barrel, rather than requiring the user to manually push the lead forward.
Wahl Eversharp also produced a range of fountain pens, including the popular "Doric" series, which was introduced in 1929. These pens featured a distinctive ribbed design and were available in a range of colours and sizes. The company also introduced the "Skyline" series in 1941, which was notable for its streamlined design and aerodynamic shape.
After World War II, Wahl Eversharp launched a ballpoint pen, which did not function correctly resulting in returns under warranty incurring large losses for the company. As well Wahl Eversharp faced increasing competition from overseas manufacturers.
In 1957 the company was sold to Parker and production under the Wahl Eversharp ceased.
Walker & Hall
Walker & Hall was founded in Sheffield in 1843 by John Harrison, a Britannia-metal worker who hired George Walker to learn the electroplating process. Walker left Harrison two years later and partnered with Samuel Coulson, later joined by Henry Hall, to start manufacturing electroplated items.
By the 1850s, Hall's nephews had joined the business, and Sir John Bingham became a partner in 1852. The company grew to have 1500 employees by 1894, specializing in electroplate, cutlery, and silver. The company was known for its publicity, including a false story that Walker was a co-inventor of the electroplating process with Dr. John Wright.
The Electro Works of Walker & Hall dominated Sheffield's skyline until the 1940 Sheffield Blitz, and the building was later rebuilt and continued production until 1963, when it was demolished. In 1954, the company hired David Mellor, a young designer who produced stripped-down, modern cutlery designs that won a Design Centre award in 1957. In 1963, Walker & Hall were subsumed into the Clore Group, and then into British Silverware Ltd. The company ceased manufacturing in 1971, but the name was revived as a retail firm.
Walking Sticks
A walking stick was an integral part of every well dressed man's wardrobe in the nineteenth century, and his collection of walking-sticks were probably kept just inside the hall in a stand, sharing space with umbrellas.
Walking-sticks and canes derive from the cudgels and staves carried for defence, evolving into dress accessories topped with silver or ivory, with a ferrule at the point to cut down wear. Many had elaborately carved heads. Sometimes these unscrewed to reveal space for a snuff box or other article. About 200 ancillary accessories are known to have been incorporated into walking sticks, the best known being the sword. Sword sticks date back to the sixteenth century, and often the sword just slides out with the stick acting as a sheath. Other sword and knife designs had a spring mechanism and would release on the press of a button or lever.
Other sticks pull apart, revealing a dagger with a handle for the left hand, and a stick with a blade for the right hand. Two steel blades sliding into the shaft from each end probably represent duelling weapons. The poacher's gun was a simple weapon in the shape of a walking stick; more sophisticated was a six-barrelled revolver, exposed by pressure on a trigger-spring that expelled part of the cane, and which had a dagger in the centre of the barrels.
Most extravagant was the machine-gun in a rectangular cane. "The kit", as it was 'known, was a pocket violin; this was developed into a violin fitted into a cane with a two-inch (5cm) diameter. Other canes contained music-boxes, harmonicas, flutes, piccolos, pipes (including opium pipes), vesta boxes, cigarette holders, candles, battery torches (dating from as early as 1882), contraceptives, poison, and a whole tribe of canes known as working companions (scalpels for doctors, small spades for botanists, safety lamps for miners). Among the most curious is the voyeur's cane with a mirror above the ferrule enabling the user to look up women's skirts.
Wall Pocket
A wall pocket is a ceramic vase of flattened shape, pierced at the back so it could hang on a wall, and sometimes tapering to a point at the base. They were often made in quaint shapes such as fish, a mask, or a cornucopia. They became popular in the eighteenth century and continue to be made to the present day. Porcelain examples were made by Worcester in a very elaborate form, while those designed Clarice Cliff and Longwy were streamlined and often in pleasant pastel colours.
Wallace Silversmiths Inc.
Wallace Silversmiths Inc. is an American company that has been producing high-quality silverware since 1835. The company was founded by Robert Wallace in Wallingford, Connecticut, and initially produced items such as spoons and small household goods.
Over time, Wallace Silversmiths Inc. grew in popularity and expanded its product line to include more elaborate and ornate pieces of silverware, such as tea sets, flatware, and serving pieces. The company's reputation for producing high-quality, intricately designed pieces helped it to become one of the most well-respected silverware manufacturers in the United States.
One of the key innovations that helped Wallace Silversmiths Inc. to stand out was the development of the "Chippendale" pattern, a highly ornate design that became one of the company's signature styles. The Chippendale pattern was inspired by the work of the famous furniture maker Thomas Chippendale, and it featured intricate scrollwork and ornate designs that were highly sought-after by collectors.
Wallace Silversmiths Inc. continued to thrive throughout the 20th century, producing a wide range of silverware for both everyday use and special occasions. The company was acquired by the Syratech Corporation in the 1990s, and its products continue to be sold under the Wallace brand name.
Today, Wallace Silversmiths Inc. remains an important part of the history of American silverware manufacturing. Its legacy of producing high-quality, intricately designed pieces has helped it to stand the test of time, and its products continue to be highly sought-after by collectors and silverware enthusiasts.
Wallendorf Porcelain
Wallendorf Porcelain Company, located in Lichte (Wallendorf) in the Thuringian Highlands, has been in operation since 1764, making it one of the oldest porcelain manufacturers in Europe. The company was founded by Johan Wolfgang Hammann, Gotthelf Greiner and his cousin Gottfried Greiner.
Wallendorf porcelain was initially manufactured using local raw materials, which resulted in unclean and toned porcelain. However, by 1780, Bohemian kaolin was being used, which resulted in snow-white hard-paste porcelain. The company remained in Hammann's family until 1833, after which control of the company changed hands multiple times.
Despite the changes in ownership, the typical character of Wallendorf porcelain has remained unchanged for almost 250 years. The company began production in 1764 with handmade coffee, tea, and chocolate services, which were later complemented by figurines in 1785. These wares remain the main areas of production
Walter Burley Griffin
Walter Burley Griffin (1876-1937) was an American architect and urban planner who was born in Maywood, Illinois. He is best known for his work as a pioneer of the Prairie School of architecture and as the designer of Canberra, the capital city of Australia.
Griffin studied architecture at the University of Illinois and later at the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris. He worked for several architects in the United States and Europe before establishing his own practice in Chicago in 1906. In 1912, Griffin won a competition to design the new capital city of Australia, and he and his wife, Marion Mahony Griffin, relocated to Australia to oversee the project.
In Canberra, Griffin developed a unique urban plan that incorporated a series of concentric circles and radiating boulevards, with the government district at the centre. The plan was designed to balance the city's natural and man-made elements and to allow for growth and expansion. Griffin's design for Canberra was innovative and influential, and he is widely regarded as a visionary urban planner.
In addition to his work in urban planning, Griffin was also a prominent architect and designer. He designed a number of notable buildings and their furnishings in Australia, including the capital's Parliament House and Newman College at the University of Melbourne.
Walter Burley Griffin died in India in 1937, and his work is widely recognized as a major contribution to 20th-century architecture and city planning. His designs for Canberra are considered among the greatest urban plans of the 20th century.
Walter Lindrum
Walter Lindrum was a renowned Australian billiards player who was considered one of the greatest players of all time. He was born on August 29, 1898, in Kalgoorlie, Western Australia, and passed away on July 30, 1960, on the Gold Coast and was buried in Melbourne.
He came from a family of billiards players, and he began playing at a young age. He quickly developed a reputation as a prodigious talent and began competing in tournaments around Australia. He set numerous world records in the game of billiards and was undefeated in major tournaments for over a decade. His most famous feat was a run of 4,137 consecutive balls without a miss in a match that lasted five hours and 28 minutes.
Lindrum was also known for his scientific approach to the game, which involved analysing angles, spin, and other factors to calculate the optimal shot. He was a perfectionist who spent countless hours practicing and refining his technique.
After retiring from competitive play, Lindrum worked as a billiards coach and commentator. He was inducted into the Australian Sports Hall of Fame in 1985, and his name remains synonymous with excellence in the sport of billiards.
Waltham Watch Company
The Waltham Watch Company was an American watch manufacturing company that was founded in 1850 in Waltham, Massachusetts. It was the first company to produce watches on a large scale in the United States, and it played a significant role in the development of the American watchmaking industry.
The company was founded by a group of businessmen, including Aaron Dennison, Edward Howard, and David Davis, who wanted to produce high-quality watches at an affordable price. They developed a system of interchangeable parts, which allowed for mass production and made the watches more affordable.
The first Waltham watch was produced in 1852, and it quickly gained a reputation for quality and accuracy. The company became known for its precision and innovative designs, and it won several awards at international exhibitions.
In the late 19th century, the Waltham Watch Company faced competition from Swiss and British watch manufacturers, who were producing watches at a lower cost. To remain competitive, the company began to focus on producing high-end watches, including chronometers and pocket watches.
During World War I, the Waltham Watch Company produced watches for the U.S. military, and it played a crucial role in supplying the military with accurate and reliable timepieces.
In the early 20th century, the company faced increasing competition from other American watch manufacturers, and it struggled to remain profitable. In 1923, the company merged with the Keystone Watch Case Company to form the Waltham Watch and Clock Company. The new company continued to produce watches until 1957 when it ceased operations due to competition from quartz watches.
Wardrobe
A wardrobe is a cupboard with space for hanging clothes. As an item of furniture as opposed to a separate closet, the wardrobe did not generally appear until the early 19th century. Until then, clothes had been stored in clothes presses.
Wardrobes may have between one and four doors, and sometimes have fitted drawers in the centre section and hanging space on either wing. The doors are often panelled, with a decorative figured timber panel surrounded by a moulded frame. The clothes hangers hung on rails or hooks, usually facing the front. Antique wardrobes are often too shallow to fit standard size wire hangers comfortably side on.
A Beaconsfield wardrobe is the term used to describe an Edwardian period wardrobe that has an open storage area in the centre top section, usually backed by a mirror, with externally visible drawers below.
Wardrobes have been made in most of the usual furniture timbers: oak, pine, cedar, mahogany, walnut and satinwood and the styles range from the plain and simple to the elaborate and ostentatious. Many were made as part of a bedroom suite together with matching dressing table and washstand. Some wardrobes were fitted with small drawers, shelves and cupboards down one side.
Warren Mcarthur
Warren McArthur was an American industrial and furniture designer who specialized in aluminum tubular furniture during the 1930s. He was born in Chicago in 1885 and graduated from Cornell University with a degree in mechanical engineering. After several years in Phoenix, he moved to Los Angeles in 1929. His Art Deco furniture designs soon became iconic Hollywood fixtures.
McArthur's furniture was characterized by its sleek lines and minimalist aesthetic. He often used aluminum tubing, which was a relatively new material at the time. His most famous designs include the "Streamline" chair, the "Aerodynamic" sofa, and the "Contour" table.
McArthur's furniture was praised for its beauty and functionality. It was also seen as a symbol of the modern age. His designs were featured in magazines such as Vogue and Architectural Digest, and they were also exhibited at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City.
McArthur continued to design furniture until his death in 1961. His work is still considered to be some of the finest examples of mid-century modern furniture.
Warren Platner
Warren Platner was an American architect and designer known for his iconic furniture designs in the 1970s. Born in Baltimore, Maryland, in 1919, Platner studied architecture at Cornell University before moving to Paris to work with legendary architect and designer Raymond Loewy. He returned to the United States in the 1950s and joined the architecture firm of Eero Saarinen, where he worked on projects such as the TWA Terminal at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York.
In the 1960s, Platner opened his own architecture and design firm and began creating his own furniture designs. His most famous work is the "Platner Collection," a series of chairs, tables, and other pieces made of steel wire and curved metal rods, creating a unique and elegant aesthetic. The collection was introduced in 1966 by furniture manufacturer Knoll and became an instant classic, often appearing in popular culture and interior design magazines.
Throughout his career, Platner also worked on a variety of other projects, including designing the interior of Windows on the World, a restaurant located at the top of the North Tower of the World Trade Center in New York City. He was awarded the Rome Prize in 1955 and later served as the director of architecture at the American Academy in Rome from 1974 to 1978.
Warren Platner passed away in 2006, but his legacy as a pioneering designer and architect continues to inspire generations of creatives. His furniture designs remain highly sought-after by collectors and design enthusiasts alike, and are often exhibited in museums and galleries around the world.
Warren Tippett
Warren Tippett was a renowned New Zealand ceramicist, born on June 19, 1941, in Auckland, New Zealand. He is best known for his unique style of pottery that fused Maori and European motifs to create striking and original works.
Tippett studied at the Elam School of Fine Arts at the University of Auckland, where he received a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in 1962. After completing his degree, he traveled to Japan to study pottery and wood firing techniques. He was deeply influenced by the Japanese ceramic tradition and incorporated many of its elements into his own work.
In the 1970s, Tippett became interested in Maori culture and began to incorporate Maori designs and motifs into his work. He collaborated with Maori artists to develop a style that blended Maori and European techniques, resulting in his signature style that featured intricate patterns and bold, colorful designs.
Tippett's work was exhibited extensively in New Zealand and internationally, including exhibitions in Australia, Japan, and the United States. He won many awards throughout his career, including the prestigious Fletcher Brownbuilt Ceramic Award in 1986.
Tragically, Tippett's life was cut short when he died in a car accident in 1994 at the age of 53. His legacy, however, lives on through his distinctive and influential works, which have inspired and influenced generations of New Zealand and international ceramicists.
Warwick Cruet
A Warwick cruet stand is a cruet stand in silver, with a five lobed base and central handle, fitted with three silver casters and two cut glass bottles. They were made from circa 1750 and most likely named after the Earl of Warwick.
Washstand
Essentially a 19th century development of the 18th century basin stand, the washstand had assumed a regular table form by about the 1830s, usually with a marble top and pot board beneath. The earlier timber top washstands had a timber splashback, while the marble top washstands usually had a matching marble splashback often with a small semicircular shelf for the soap dish, or a tiled splashback.
Many washstands had a hole cut into the top to contain the china wash basin.
Washstands were generally supported on pedestal, scrolled or cabriole legs, in keeping with the dressing table with which they were often made en suite.
Edwardian washstands like most furniture of the period were much more rectangular in outline, with squared corners and (Lassetter) fairly plainly turned legs. They sometimes had a cupboard below the marble top. The back was usually tiled, often featuring the Art Nouveau motifs.
Washstands were used until the 1920s.
Wassail
Wassail is a hot mulled cider traditionally drunk as an integral part of wassailing, an ancient drinking ritual practiced in the apple growing areas of southern England, intended to ensure a good cider apple harvest the following year.
Watch Keys
The first pocket watches were invented in the 16th century, and at that time, all pocket watches were key-wound. The first keys were simple, T-shaped pieces of metal, but over time, they became more ornate and decorative.
In the 19th century, a new type of pocket watch was invented that did not require a key to wind. These watches, called stem-wind watches, had a small stem that projected from the case and could be used to wind and set the time. As a result, the demand for key-winding keys declined, and they are now considered to be antiques, and are collectable.
There are many different types of antique pocket watch winding keys. Some of the most common types include:
• T-bar keys: These are the most common type of antique pocket watch winding key. They have a T-shaped end that fits into the winding hole of the watch.
• Revolver keys: These keys have a cylindrical barrel with a series of teeth on the outside. The teeth fit into the winding hole of the watch and rotate the mechanism.
• Fusee keys: This type of key is used to wind watches with a fusee mechanism. The fusee is a cone-shaped weight that stores energy and releases it slowly to power the watch. The key has a long, thin shaft that fits into the winding hole of the watch and turns the fusee.
• Stem keys: This type of key is used to wind watches with a stem winding mechanism. The stem is a small rod that projects from the watch case and is used to set the time and wind the watch. The key has a small, pointed end that fits into the hole in the stem and turns it.
The keys can be made from a variety of materials, including brass, silver, and gold. They can also be decorated with engraving or other designs.
Watch Stands
At night Victorians usually hung their pocket watches on special stands. Because the face was raised and visible, this had the effect of converting the pocket watch into a clock. Watch holders were made of many materials, including wood, china, metal, and bone, and some were of such an elaborate design that the watch itself was almost lost.
The Staffordshire factories made a variety of holders in bright colours and odd shapes.
A development of these was the larger stand which had a recess for a small clock with a watch like face. They might be in the form of a castle gatehouse, with a recess above the gateway, or of a milkmaid with one arm bent to form the recess.
Watch stands were supersed in the 1920's by the increasing popularity of wristwatches.
Watcombe Pottery
The Watcombe Terra Cotta Clay Company was founded in 1875 by G. J. Allen, after he discovered a particularly fine clay in the grounds of Watcombe House near Torquay. The company was initially known for its production of art pottery, and its wares were often decorated with floral motifs. However, it soon began to produce a wider range of wares, including souvenir pottery, household pottery, and architectural terracotta. The Watcombe pottery was very successful, and its wares were exhibited internationally within a few years.
"Torquay Pottery" is a generic term used to describe the products of the various potteries that were established in the Torquay area following the success of The Watcombe Terra Cotta Clay Company. These potteries used local sources of red Devon clay to produce a wide range of wares, including art pottery, souvenir pottery, and household pottery. "
The Watcombe pottery expanded rapidly, employing a vast workforce by the end of the decade. In 1884, the company was bought by Evans & Co, and in 1901 it was acquired by Hexter, Humpherson & Co, who amalgamated it with Aller Vale Pottery. The new pottery was known as Royal Aller Vale & Watcombe Co.
The Watcombe Pottery continued to produce pottery until 1962, when it closed down.
Waterbury Clock Co.
The Waterbury Clock Co. was founded in 1857 in Waterbury, Connecticut by a group of investors, including Chauncey Jerome, a well-known clockmaker of the time. The company was originally known as the Benedict & Burnham Manufacturing Co., but it was soon renamed the Waterbury Clock Co. after the city where it was located.
In the early years, the Waterbury Clock Co. produced a variety of clocks, including pendulum clocks and wall clocks. The company quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality, affordable clocks that were popular with consumers.
In 1880, the Waterbury Clock Co. introduced the first affordable mass-produced pocket watch, the Waterbury Watch. The watch was an instant success, and within a few years, the company was producing over 600,000 watches annually.
Over the next few decades, the Waterbury Clock Co. continued to innovate and expand its product line. In 1890, the company introduced the first alarm clock with a snooze button, which allowed users to snooze for a few extra minutes before the alarm went off again. In 1914, the company introduced the first wristwatch with a luminous dial, making it easier to read in low-light conditions.
During World War II, the Waterbury Clock Co. shifted its focus to producing military equipment, including compasses and timing devices for bombs and artillery. After the war, the company returned to producing consumer clocks and watches.
In the 1960s, the Waterbury Clock Co. merged with the United States Time Corporation to become the Timex Corporation. Under the Timex name, the company continued to produce a wide range of clocks and watches, including the famous Timex Ironman sports watch.
The Waterbury Clock Co. was a pioneer in the clock and watch industry, known for its innovative designs and affordable prices. The company's legacy continues through its successor, the Timex Group, which remains a leading producer of watches and clocks.
Waterford Crystal
Waterford Glass House at Waterford in Ireland was established in 1783 by two local merchants, George and William Penrose. Glassmakers were bought in from England to head the company and products made from 1783, until the business closed in 1851 due to the high Irish tax on glass, account for its fame. Waterford glassware of this period was of heavy quality, colourless and with deep wheel cut decoration.
In 1947 a new glass manufacturing company was established in Waterford based on skilled European labour and in 1951 it was taken over by the Irish Glass Bottle company and renamed Waterford Glass Ltd.. Waterford purchased the Wedgwood group in 1986 and the group was renamed Waterford Wedgwood. In 2009 the group was purchased by a venture capital company that also owned the Royal Doulton Brand.
In July 2015 companies in the Waterford Wedgwood group were acquired by the leading Finish consumer goods company Fiskars, who also own the Gerber, Royal Copenhagen, Rorstrand and Arabia brands.
Waterman Pen Company
Waterman is an American manufacturer of high-end writing instruments, most notably fountain pens and ballpoint pens. The company was founded in New York City in 1884 by Lewis Edson Waterman.
Waterman's early pens were notable for their innovative design, which included a feed system that used capillary action to regulate the flow of ink to the nib. This made them much more reliable and consistent than other fountain pens of the time, and helped establish Waterman as a leading brand in the writing instrument market.
Over the years, Waterman continued to innovate and refine its pens, introducing new technologies and designs that set them apart from their competitors. One of the most notable of these innovations was the introduction of the "lever filler" system in 1901, which made it much easier to fill the pen with ink.
Waterman's pens became particularly popular in the 1920s and 1930s, when they were embraced by writers, artists, and businesspeople alike. During this time, the company introduced a number of new designs and materials, including pens made from celluloid and other colorful plastics.
In the post-World War II era, Waterman continued to evolve its pens to meet the changing needs of consumers. The company introduced ballpoint pens in the 1950s, which quickly became popular due to their convenience and ease of use.
Since 1958 Waterman has had a number of owners including Bic and Gillette and from 2000 has been owned by the American group Newell Brands. The company continues to produce some of the finest writing instruments in the world, using only the highest quality materials and craftsmanship.
Wax Dolls
Wax was used by doll makers from the 17th to the 20th centuries. It enabled facial expressions to be skillfully captured, and Victorian wax dolls often represented children in the sentimental manner typical of those times.
Wax dolls are made in one of three ways: poured (into a mold); wax over papier mache or other material and reinforced wax.
Wax dolls did not shatter when dropped like ceramic dolls, but they are easily scratched, or nicked and rapid changes in temperature cause them to crack or distort. Due to the fragile nature of the material, wax dolls have not survived in large numbers.
The best known British wax doll makers of the 19th century are Charles Marsh (1865 - 1914), Lucy Peck (1891 - 1930), Pierotti (1770 - 1942) and Madame Augusta Montanari (1851-1884). Pierotti also supplied heads to other manufacturers. Due to the difficulty of including a permanent marking within the wax, where a manufacturer identified their products, it was usually by a paper label, many of which have come loose and been lost over the years.
Damaged wax dolls cannot be easily repaired, so damage to a wax doll will have a serious effect on its value. The few wax dolls which have retained their original skin tone and feature color, and have no crazing or scratches sell at high premiums.
Wedgwood Caneware
Caneware, also known as cane ware, is a type of pottery that is characterized by its fine, delicate texture and its creamy white colour. It was popularized by the British pottery manufacturer Wedgwood in the 18th century and was imitated by other British potteries. Caneware is made from a mixture of kaolin, feldspar and quartz, that is mixed with water and then shaped into pots, vases and other decorative objects. The pottery is then fired at a high temperature. After firing, the surface is polished to a smooth finish, which gives it its distinctive appearance and texture. Wedgwood's caneware was known for its delicate detailing and was highly sought after by collectors. The caneware produced by other British potteries was also of high quality and is also highly valued by collectors.
Wedgwood Creamware / Queens Ware
Creamware, also known as "Queens Ware" is the cream-coloured English earthenware developed by Josiah Wedgwood in the 1760s. The invention of creamware was the result of experimentation in order to find a British substitute for imported Chinese porcelain, and the cream colour was considered a fault at the time. The lightweight fine white earthenware with a clean rich yellowish proved ideal for domestic ware.
Royal patronage boosted sales. In 1765 Queen Charlotte, the consort of King George III placed an order for a 12 place tea set and allowed Wedgwood to use the name "Queens Ware" for the line. In 1770 Wedgwood produced a creamware dinner service of 952 pieces supplied to Catherine II the Great of Russia.
Other potteries such as Doulton, Neale & Co. and Spode produced smaller quantities of creamware.
Creamware continued to be made throughout the 19th century and later.
Wedgwood Fairyland Lustre / Daisy Makeig-Jones
Of all of Wedgwood's ware, the most highly prized and keenly sought are the company's range of Fairyland Lustre.
Fairyland Lustre was the name given to a range of ornamental lustre wares by "Daisy" Makeig-Jones (full name, Susannah Margaretta "Daisy" Makeig-Jones (1881–1945) who was a designer and artist for Wedgwood.
Daisy Makeig-Jones was born in Wath-upon-Dearne near Rotherham in Yorkshire, the eldest of seven children, and she came from a professional background.
After attending boarding school and studying the Torquay School of Art, she joined Wedgwood in 1909, aged in her late twenties. The first fairyland Lustre was produced from her designs in 1915.
Fairyland Lustre is characterised by bright underglaze colours, commercial lustres and printed figures (often elves and fairies), scenes and landscapes.
The wares produced fall into three main categories, most items being bowls, jars and vases of various shapes and designs of which there were about 32 designs), and not seen so frequently, plates and plaques, for which there were about 12 designs of each. The names given to the designs, reflected the subject matter, examples being "Willow Fairyland", "Imps on a Bridge and Tree House", "The Stuff that Dreams are Made Of", and "Firbolgs and "Thumbelina."
As production increased, Makeig-Jones took on an increasingly supervisory role. Consequently, She did not decorate some later Fairyland Lustre pieces and collectors should check that pieces bear her original monogram and not one from an engraved plate.
Daisy Makeig-Jones retired in 1931 and only one new pattern was designed after that date. Production of the range continued until 1941, and once all the stock had been sold there was little interest in the range until a revival in popularity in the 1960s, leading to a consequent rise in prices which has since been maintained, making Fairyland Lustre one of the most valuable and collectable types of Wedgwood porcelain.
View further examples of Wedgwood Fairyland Lustre / Daisy Makeig-Jones
Wedgwood Jasperware
Wedgwood Jasperware is a type of pottery that was first produced by the English potter Josiah Wedgwood in the 1770s. It is made of unglazed stoneware that is typically colored blue, green, or lilac, and features white or light-colored relief decorations.
The name "Jasperware" is derived from the mineral jasper, which Wedgwood used to give the pottery its distinctive colors and texture. The pottery was an immediate success and was widely popular throughout Europe, with Wedgwood receiving commissions from royalty, aristocrats, and other wealthy patrons.
Jasperware is known for its classical motifs and designs, which were inspired by ancient Greek and Roman art. Wedgwood often used these designs to create plaques, vases, and other decorative objects that were highly prized by collectors and enthusiasts. Jasperware was also used to make a wide range of tableware, including tea sets, plates, and bowls.
One of the most famous designs of Wedgwood Jasperware is the "Portland Vase," a black and white glass vase that was originally made in ancient Rome. Wedgwood was fascinated by the vase and spent years trying to replicate it in his own pottery. He eventually succeeded and his version of the Portland Vase became one of the most iconic pieces of Wedgwood Jasperware.
Wedgwood Jasperware remains highly prized by collectors and enthusiasts, and the Wedgwood company continues to produce new designs and variations of the classic pottery. The distinctive blue and white colors and classical designs of Wedgwood Jasperware have become synonymous with the Wedgwood name and are recognized as an important part of the history of English pottery.
Wedgwood Pottery Company
The Wedgwood Pottery Company has been in operation for over 250 years. Founded in 1759 in England by Josiah Wedgwood, the company quickly became known for its high-quality pottery and innovative designs.
In the early years of the company, Josiah Wedgwood was focused on creating new types of pottery that would meet the demands of the changing market. He introduced a variety of new techniques, including the use of transfer printing, which allowed for intricate designs to be applied to pottery quickly and easily.
One of Wedgwood's most famous designs was the Jasperware line, which was introduced in the 1770s. This line featured a matte finish and was made in a variety of colours, including blue, green, and lilac. The Jasperware line proved to be incredibly popular and is still produced by Wedgwood to this day.
Over the years, Wedgwood has continued to innovate and introduce new designs. In the 19th century, the company introduced the Fairyland Lustre line, which was known for its whimsical and fantastical designs. Wedgwood also became known for its bone china, which was introduced in the early 20th century.
In addition to its pottery designs, Wedgwood has also been involved in various social causes throughout its history. In the late 18th century, Josiah Wedgwood was a prominent abolitionist and created a medallion featuring an image of a slave in chains with the words "Am I not a man and a brother?" This design became a symbol of the abolitionist movement and was widely circulated.
Wedgwood is known around the world for its high-quality pottery and continues to innovate and introduce new designs. The company has received numerous awards for its designs and is a favourite of collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Wegner, Hans J.
Hans J Wegner (1914–2007) attended the School of Arts and Crafts in Copenhagen at the age of 22 and worked as an assistant to Erik Møller and Arne Jacobsen before opening his own office in 1943. The real beauty of Wegner’s genius must be seen in context with his collaboration with master cabinetmaker Johannes Hansen. The attitude with which Hansen accepted the young designer’s ideas was the perfect combination between designer and craftsman. Their collaboration went on for many years, and they presented their work at the Cabinetmaker’s show every year from 1941-1966. With his love of natural materials and his deep understanding of the need for furniture to be functional as well as beautiful, Wegner made mid-century Danish design popular on an international scale. With more than 500 different chair designs Wegner is the most prolific Danish designer to date. Wegner’s design went on to win worldwide recognition through the 1950’s and 1960’s and his furniture, in particular his chairs, are to be found in the permanent collections of the world’s most prestigious museums.
Wellington Chest
This type of chest was first seen in the 1820's and is characterised by their tall narrow shape, and usually with a locking flap on one side, which when closed, prevents any of the drawers from opening. They continued to be made in the Victorian period in mahogany, walnut and rosewood.
Some had a fitted secretaire occupying two drawer heights, but these are not considered as desirable as the all-drawer model. Due to their compact size, Wellington chests are keenly sought and command high prices. Because of the price differential, be aware that some secretaire versions may have been converted back to full-drawer models, the give-away being the new drawer linings in two of the drawers.
Wellington chests were also made in Continental Europe, and these are usually in decorative timbers, with gilt metal mounts, without a side locking flap.
Welsch & Co.
Welsch & Co. was a German doll manufacturer founded in Nuremberg, Bavaria, in 1870 by Johann Welsch. The company specialized in the production of high-quality bisque dolls. Bisque dolls are made from a type of unglazed porcelain that is fired at a high temperature. This process gives the dolls a hard, durable finish.
Welsch & Co. dolls were known for their realistic features and delicate details. The company's dolls were often dressed in elaborate clothing and accessories. Welsch & Co. dolls were also very expensive, making them a status symbol for wealthy families.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Welsch & Co. was one of the leading doll manufacturers in Germany. The company's dolls were exported all over the world and were highly sought-after by collectors.
In the 1920s and 1930s, Welsch & Co. began to produce composition dolls in addition to bisque dolls. Composition dolls are made from a mixture of sawdust, glue, and other materials. They are less expensive than bisque dolls, but they are also less durable.
After World War II, Welsch & Co. continued to produce dolls, but the company was no longer as successful as it had been in the past. In the 1960s, Welsch & Co. was acquired by another German toy company, Schildkröt. Schildkröt continued to produce Welsch & Co. dolls until the early 1970s, when the company discontinued the line.
Wembley Ware
Wembley Ware was the name given to a range of ceramic figurines and functional items produced between 1946 and 1961 in Perth, Western Australia by H. L. Brisbane and Wunderlich Ltd., whose primary business was the production of baked clay tiles and earthenware items.
The range, titled the "Fancy Ware Range", included Australian flora and fauna - koala, kangaroo, emu, fish etc., Aboriginal figures as well as functional items including vases, ashtrays, plates and bowls.
After the austerity as a result of World War II, there was a ready market for these new, decorative but non-essential items, whihc were sold by both mail order and in department stores..
The now unfashionable ashtray, often mounted with an animal, was a signature piece of Wembley Ware. Made in a variety of sizes and shapes, their range from the plain, circular ashtray to fancy types that were mounted with well, modelled figures or animals. Most of these are identified with a factory mark either printed or impressed in the base
Being an Australian company, many of the Wembley ornaments featured Australian fauna. Well modelled and naturalistically coloured figures of kangaroos, emus and koalas are all sought after. Less Australian, but just as collectable - and not as commonly found - are the penguin, tortoise and black cat.
A series of fish figures was also produced in the Wembley ware line, with the most common being the dhufish.
Amongst the more functional items, vases were made in a variety of stles and finsishes including tan-shaped, flared nexk and swan posy vase.
Other trade names used by the factory during several changes of ownership were 'Calyx Ware' and 'Bristile China'.
Wemyss Ware
Wemyss ware (pronounced Weems) was first produced in 1882 when Robert Heron, the owner of the Fife Pottery in Scotland, brought a group of Bohemian craftsmen to the factory, one of whom, Karol Nekola, became Heron’s master painter. Nekola died in 1915 and was succeeded by Edwin Sandland who, in turn, was succeeded in 1928 by Nekola’s son Joseph.
The name Wemyss was given to the new style of pottery in honour of the Wemyss family of the nearby Wemyss castle, who were early and enthusiastic patrons of the ware. The most outstanding feature of the ware is the free-flowing and naturalistic hand painting.
Wemyss was fired at a low temperature in order to preserve the brilliance of the underglaze colours. The body is soft and therefore prone to damage.
Wares were initially sold through Thomas Goode’s china shop in Mayfair, London. A victim of the economic depression, the Kirkaldy factory closed in 1932, and Joseph Nekola moved down to the Bovey Tracey Pottery Company in Devon, which had been producing unmarked Wemyss-style wares since c1916.
Bovey Pottery also acquired many of the Fife Pottery moulds and the remaining undecorated biscuit pottery, as well as the rights to the goodwill in the Wemyss name.
One of Bovey Pottery's largest customers was London wholesaler, Jan Plichta, a Czech citizen who migrated to Britain in the early 1900s. As such, the items he purchased were marked with his name, and generally not with the Wemyss mark. Not all objects carrying the Plichta marks were made at Bovey Tracey as he is also known to have bought from The Elton Pottery of Thomas Mayer.
At Bovey Pottery, Joseph Nikola taught his apprentice Esther Weeks the techniques of painting Wemyss Ware, and after the death of Joseph Nikola in 1952 Esther Weeks became Head Decorator until the Bovey Pottery closed in 1957.
The Griselda Hill Pottery Ltd started producing Wemyss style pottery in the Wemyss home town of Fife in 1985. The Griselda Hill Pottery Ltd acquired the Wemyss Ware trade mark in 1994, and over the years the pottery has developed a range of Wemyss Ware which can easily stand alongside the originals.
Werkstatte Hagenauer
The Werkstatte Hagenauer was a family-owned workshop in Vienna, Austria, that produced fine handcrafted objects for decoration and use over its nearly ninety-year history. The workshop was founded in 1898 by Carl Hagenauer, who began as an apprentice at Würbel & Czokally, a silverware producer in Vienna. He then trained as a goldsmith before founding his own business. The workshop's early output was mostly small figurines and useful objects, such as cigarette boxes, ashtrays, and candlesticks.
In the early 1900s, Carl Hagenauer began to experiment with new materials and techniques, such as nickel-plating and chrome-plating. He also began to collaborate with other artists, such as Josef Hoffmann and Otto Prutscher. During this period the Werkstätte Hagenauer produced a wide range of items, including sculptures, figurines, decorative objects, and household items. Their pieces were typically made of metals like brass and bronze and were characterized by their modernist and often abstract designs. Many of their sculptures depicted human figures and animals, often with elongated forms and simplified features.
The workshop's output during this period was characterized by its sleek, geometric forms and its use of modern materials. The workshop's work was well-received by critics and collectors, and it soon became one of the leading producers of Art Deco metalwork in Austria.
In the 1920s, the workshop was taken over by Carl Hagenauer's son, Karl Hagenauer. Karl Hagenauer continued to develop the workshop's style, and he also expanded the workshop's output to include furniture, lighting, and other objects. The workshop also began to export its products to other countries, such as the United States and Great Britain.
The Werkstätte Hagenauer faced challenges during the tumultuous years of the early 20th century, including both World Wars and the changing artistic landscape. Despite these challenges, the workshop continued to create notable pieces until it eventually closed its doors in 1987. Today, the workshop's retail premises, opened in 1938 on Vienna's Opernring, survives today as a museum and shop.
Westnofa
Westnofa was a Norwegian furniture company that was founded in 1956. The name "Westnofa" is a combination of the words "WEST NOrway FActories". The company was formed by a collaboration of the country's leading furniture manufacturers, who wanted to combine forces to market and export locally produced furniture internationally.
Westnofa's mid-century furniture designs were known for their elegant curves, use of laminated timber, and lightweight construction. The company's most iconic design is the Siesta chair, which was designed by Ingmar Relling in 1960. The Siesta chair is a lightweight, stackable chair that is made from laminated rosewood and canvas. It is known for its comfortable, relaxed design.
Other notable Westnofa designers include Torstein Nilsen and Jens Nielsen. Nilsen designed the No. 1 chair, which is a simple, elegant chair that is made from laminated beech. Nielsen also designed the No. 3 chair, which is a more sculptural chair that is made from laminated walnut.
Westnofa furniture was exported to many countries, and was particularly popular in the United States. The company's furniture was featured in magazines such as House Beautiful and Good Housekeeping. Westnofa furniture was also used in the White House during the Kennedy administration.
Westnofa ceased production in the early 1980s. However, the company's furniture remains popular today, and it is highly sought-after by collectors.
Whatnot
A set of standing shelves for holding books, ornaments and whatever. The French term for this form is étagère. Georgian and Regency whatnots were usually square in form, with three or more shelves supported by finely turned spindles. There was generally a small drawer at the bottom. Some examples of red cedar whatnots have survived from colonial times.
Victorian whatnots, which are rather more common, were intended to stand in a corner. Usually triangular, they have staged or graduated shelves, supported by spindles and often with a fretwork gallery at the back of each shelf. They were often made in burr walnut, sometimes inlaid. Bamboo whatnots date from the late 19th century.
Usually the finials have a threaded wooden screw which fits into the matching threaded hole in column, so the units can be disassembled. Often at least one of the threads have worn, and to overcome this, the finials and columns have been glued.
Whitefriars / James Powell & Sons (england)
Whitefriars glass is a range of high-quality household glassware that was produced by the British glass manufacturer James Powell & Sons, which was founded in London in 1834. James Powell & Sons began as a family business, and specialised in the production of stained glass, and gained a reputation for producing some of the finest stained glass windows in Britain.
In the late 19th century, James Powell & Sons began to experiment with new glassmaking techniques, and in the early 20th century, the company began to produce a range of high-quality art glassware, including vases, bowls, and other decorative objects. The company became known for its innovative designs and use of vibrant colors, and its glassware was highly sought after by collectors and art enthusiasts.
One of the most iconic and enduring designs produced by James Powell & Sons was the Whitefriars range, which was first introduced in the 1920s. The Whitefriars range was characterized by its clean, modernist lines and use of bold, geometric shapes, and it quickly became one of the most popular and successful glassware lines of the era.
Throughout the 20th century, James Powell & Sons continued to produce a wide range of glassware, including both art glass and functional glassware such as drinking glasses and tableware. However, the company faced increasing competition from other glass manufacturers, and in the latter part of the century, it struggled financially.
In 1962, James Powell & Sons was acquired by Whitefriars Glass Limited, which later merged with another glass company to become Whitefriars Holdings Ltd. In 1981, Whitefriars Holdings Ltd. was acquired by Waterford Glass Group, which then became Waterford Wedgwood plc, and the Whitefriars range was eventually discontinued.
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Wiener Werkstatte
The Wiener Werkstätte (Viennese Workshops) was a design movement that flourished in Vienna from 1903 to 1932. It was founded by a group of artists and designers who were dissatisfied with the state of the decorative arts in Austria at the time. They believed that the decorative arts had become stagnant and uninspired, and they wanted to create a new kind of design that was both beautiful and functional. They were inspired by the Arts and Crafts movement in England at the time, and both shared many of the same goals. The Wiener Werkstätte leaders, Josef Hoffmann and Koloman Moser, believed that good design should be accessible to everyone, not just the wealthy. They also believed that design should be integrated into all aspects of life, from furniture and jewellery to architecture and fashion.
The Wiener Werkstätte produced a wide range of objects, including furniture, textiles, jewellery, ceramics, and glassware. Their work was characterized by its simple lines, geometric forms, and use of natural materials. The movement also had a strong emphasis on craftsmanship, and many of their objects were handmade. They had a major influence on the development of modern design. Their work was exhibited all over the world, and it inspired a new generation of designers. The movement also helped to popularize the idea of Gesamtkunstwerk, or "total work of art," which is the concept that all aspects of a design should be unified.
The Wiener Werkstätte was forced to close in 1932 due to financial difficulties. However, their work continues to be admired by designers and collectors around the world.
Willem Blaeu and Joan Blaeu, Cartographers
Willem Janszoon Blaeu (1571-1638) and Joan Blaeu (1596-1673) were father and son map makers, astronomers, and cartographers from the Netherlands. They are considered to be among the most important figures in the history of cartography and are known for their detailed and accurate maps of the world.
Willem Janszoon Blaeu, who was born in Alkmaar, Netherlands, studied cartography, astronomy and mathematics in Amsterdam, later established himself as a globe and instrument maker, after that he started to publish maps and atlases. In 1630, he established a cartographic printing press in Amsterdam, which was one of the largest and most advanced of its kind in Europe. He is considered to be one of the founders of the Dutch school of cartography, which was known for its highly detailed and accurate maps.
Joan Blaeu, Willem's son, worked with his father in the cartographic printing press, and after his father's death in 1638, he took over the business and continued to produce maps and atlases. He published many important works, including the "Atlas Maior," which was one of the most comprehensive and detailed atlases of the world that had ever been produced at that time, it was said to have contained around 593 maps and around 3,000 pages.
Both father and son's maps and atlases were widely used by sailors, merchants, and scholars, and they were considered to be among the most accurate and detailed maps of their time. They also contributed to the progress of knowledge, by adding new information and correcting errors in existing maps and by promoting new surveying and cartographic techniques.
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William Arthur Smith Benson
William Arthur Smith Benson (1854 - 1924), was an English inventor and manufacturer of lighting fixtures, active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He is credited with developing the first practical and commercially successful electric lamp, the W. A. S. Benson lamp. The lamp was designed to be more efficient, durable, and long-lasting than the incandescent lamps that were in use at the time.
Benson's invention is considered a significant development in the history of lighting technology, and his lamps were widely used in homes, offices, and public buildings. He also has a patent on the process of making electric lamps by means of pressed powder.
Benson was also known for his ornate and decorative lamp designs, which incorporated elements of the Arts and Crafts style, such as the use of natural materials and motifs. His lamps were highly sought after and were used to illuminate many notable buildings, including the Houses of Parliament in London.
William Bateman
William Bateman (1774-1850) was a prominent English silversmith who lived and worked in London during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. He came from a family of silversmiths, and was the son of Jonathan and Ann Bateman who in 1800 entered in partnership with his uncle Peter and his mother Ann.
William Bateman began his apprenticeship with his father in 1788, and after completing his training, he took over the family business in 1791. He quickly established himself as one of the leading silversmiths in London, and his workshop produced some of the finest silverware of the period.
Bateman was known for his meticulous attention to detail and his ability to create intricate designs and patterns. He was particularly skilled in creating ornate silver tea sets, serving dishes, and other household items, which were highly sought after by the wealthy and aristocratic families of the time.
In addition to his work as a silversmith, Bateman was also active in London's civic and political life. He served as a sheriff of London in 1822 and was later elected as an alderman of the City of London in 1838.
William Bateman's legacy as a silversmith is still highly regarded today, and his pieces are highly prized by collectors and enthusiasts around the world. His workshop continued to operate after his death in 1850, and his sons, William Bateman II, Peter Bateman, and Jonathan Bateman, carried on the family tradition of producing some of the finest silverware of the period.
William Billingsley
William Billingsley (1758–1828) was an English potter and ceramic artist, who is best known for his work in the Staffordshire pottery district during the late 18th and early 19th century. He worked primarily in the production of creamware and pearlware ceramics which were popular at the time for factories such as Coalport, Derby, Spode and Worcester. Billingsley was considered one of the leading ceramic artists of his time, known for his technical skill and innovative designs. He experimented with new forms, glazes, and techniques, and is credited with helping to popularize transfer-printing as a decorative technique. Some of his most famous works include a series of transfer-printed pottery depicting scenes from Shakespeare's plays, and a series of ornate creamware teapots. Billingsley's work has a high historical and artistic value.
William Brownfield / Wood & Brownfield / Brownfiel
William Brownfield was a British potter who founded his pottery in Cobridge, North Staffordshire, England, in 1836. He initially partnered with Noah Robinson and John Wood, but after Robinson's death in the same year, the firm was renamed Wood & Brownfield. By 1850, Brownfield had assumed sole control of the business.
Brownfield's pottery produced a wide range of earthenware, stone china, stoneware, and parian wares. The pottery was particularly known for its printed earthenware, which was decorated with a variety of patterns, including floral, geometric, and figural designs. Brownfield's wares were also known for their high quality and craftsmanship.
In 1871, Brownfield's sons, William Etches and Edward Arthur, joined the business, and the firm was renamed Brownfield & Sons. William Brownfield senior died in 1873, but his sons continued to run the business successfully.
Brownfield & Sons continued to produce a wide range of ceramic wares, including tableware, teaware, decorative items, and garden pottery. The pottery was particularly known for its majolica wares, which were brightly colored and often decorated with figural designs. Brownfield & Sons also produced a range of parian wares, which were white and translucent and often decorated with classical motifs.
Brownfield & Sons exhibited its wares at a number of international exhibitions, including the Great Exhibition of 1851 in London and the World's Columbian Exposition of 1893 in Chicago. The pottery won numerous awards for its wares, including a medal for printed earthenware at the International Exhibition of 1862 in London.
Brownfield & Sons ceased production in 1891. The pottery's wares are highly prized by collectors today, and are known for their high quality, craftsmanship, and beautiful designs.
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William Cary
William Cary (1759-1825) was an English mathematician, surveyor, and instrument maker who lived in London in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.
Cary began his career as a surveyor, working on various projects in England and Wales and he began to produce his own instruments to aid in his surveys. He was especially known for his theodolites, which are instruments used for measuring angles in the horizontal and vertical planes.
In the early 1800s, Cary established his own business in London, where he manufactured and sold his own precision instruments.
Cary's instruments were widely used and well-regarded during his lifetime and his business continued to operate after his death in 1825.
William Comyns & Sons
William Comyns & Sons was a London-based silversmith company founded in 1848 by William Comyns and was active from the late 19th century to the mid-20th century. When William Comyns died in 1916 the company was passed down to his sons who had joined the business in 1885, who continued to run the business.
The company was known for producing high-quality silverware, including tea sets, candelabras, and tableware. They were particularly known for their Art Nouveau and Arts and Crafts designs, which were popular during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
William Comyns & Sons also produced silver-plated items and were known for their high-quality electroplating. The company was awarded numerous medals at international exhibitions for their high-quality craftsmanship and design.
In the 1940s and 1950s, the company's reputation began to decline and the company changed hands intially in 1953, and again several times until the business was closed in 1987. However, the items produced by William Comyns & Sons remain highly collectible today, and are highly prized by collectors of antique silverware.
William Drummond & Co.
William Drummond & Co. was a prominent retailer of silver and precious objects in Melbourne, Australia, during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
The company was founded by William Drummond, a Scottish immigrant who arrived in Melbourne in the mid-19th century. Drummond initially worked as a goldsmith and jeweller, but he soon expanded his business to include the sale of silverware and other luxury items.
By the 1870s, William Drummond & Co. had become one of Melbourne's most prestigious retailers of silver and precious objects, catering to the city's growing middle and upper classes. The company's showrooms, firstly on Collins Street and later on Bourke Street, were filled with an array of high-end items, including silverware, jewellery, watches, and other luxury goods.
William Drummond & Co. was known for its high-quality products and its commitment to excellence in design and craftsmanship. The company imported silverware and other items from some of the world's leading manufacturers, including Tiffany & Co. and Elkington & Co. of England, and also employed skilled local artisans to create bespoke pieces for its clients. Highlights of the business included designing and creating a diamond and ruby brooch for Queen Elizabeth II, and later thanked Melbourne jeweller W.M. Drummond for the designed and created for her during her 1954 tour, and later a diamond and ruby brooch for the Queen Mother.
In addition to its retail business, William Drummond & Co. also played an important role in the cultural life of Melbourne, sponsoring art exhibitions and other events and commissioning works by local artists and craftsmen.
William Drummond & Co. remained a leading retailer of silver and precious objects in Melbourne until the mid-20th century, when changing social and economic conditions led to a decline in demand for luxury goods.
William Edwards
William Edwards was born in 1819 in London where he joined the family business and trained as a silversmith. He migrated to Melbourne in 1857 and set up a business in Collins Street, later moving to Collins Street East where sold silver wares, either made in his workshop or imported from London.
Edwards’ workshop excelled in the production of silver-mounted emu egg trophies, and is known for making the earliest surviving piece; a covered cup presented in 1859 to a Melbourne University scholar by his students. His workshop also produced a number of silver pieces, occasional gold trophies and epergnes, some of which were displayed in many international exhibitions. Edwards also completed major commissions such as the gifts for Prince Alfred, Duke of Edinburgh, which then earned him an appointment as goldsmith and jeweller of the Duke’s household.
He displayed his work at the International Exhibition in 1861, and the Inter-colonial Exhibition in 1866 and 1867; both held in Melbourne. He also ran a business in Melbourne which supplied silverware to major retailers until about 1872. Between 1873 and 1892, Edwards partnered with Alexander Kaul, who had come to Australia from England in 1852. Edwards continued working at his Collins Street East premises until 1876
William Edwards died in 1889 in Melbourne.
William Fearn
William Fearn was a notable silversmith based in London, England during the late 18th century and early 19th century. He was born in 1749 and was the son of a fellow silversmith, also named William Fearn. The younger Fearn was known for his fine craftsmanship and his work is highly regarded by collectors and enthusiasts today.
Fearn began his career as an apprentice to his father, and after completing his training, he established his own workshop in London's Clerkenwell district. He gained a reputation for producing high-quality silver pieces, including tea sets, candlesticks, and other decorative items.
One of Fearn's most notable contributions to the world of silver-making was his further development of the "bright-cut" technique. This involved using a small chisel to cut fine lines and patterns into the surface of the silver, creating a brilliant, reflective effect. This technique was widely used by other silversmiths in the 19th century and helped to establish Fearn as a leading innovator in his field.
Fearn also created pieces for members of the royal family and other prominent figures, including a tea service for Queen Charlotte, the wife of King George III, and a silver inkstand for Napoleon Bonaparte during his exile on the island of St. Helena.
Fearn's died in 1821.
William Ferry
William Ferry was an English-born Australian potter who was active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He was one of the founders of the Victoria Art Pottery in Melbourne, and his work is characterized by its strong Art Nouveau influences.
Ferry was born in 1861 in Darlington England. He was apprenticed as a potter at the Linthorpe Pottery, where he worked under the direction of Christopher Dresser, a leading figure in the Arts and Crafts movement. In 1896, Ferry emigrated to Australia with his brother, Graham, and they established the Victoria Art Pottery in Melbourne.
The Victoria Art Pottery was one of the leading pottery manufacturers in Australia during its time. The Ferry brothers produced a wide range of tableware, decorative items, and architectural ceramics, all of which were influenced by Art Nouveau design. William Ferry was particularly known for his grotesque figurines, which were inspired by the work of the Belgian artist, Franz Masereel.
Due to competition from English imports, The Victoria Art Pottery closed in 1912 and Ferry retired and moved to Sydney. He continued to work as a potter on a small scale until his death in 1946.
William Ferry's work is highly regarded by collectors of Australian ceramics. His figurines are particularly sought-after, and they can fetch high prices at auction. Ferry's work is represented in the collections of the National Gallery of Victoria, the Art Gallery of New South Wales and other major museums in Australia
William Hamilton, Cabinetmaker
Irish-born cabinetmaker William Hamilton (c. 1796–1885) migrated to Tasmania in 1832. His earliest recorded business, dating from 1836, was at six Argyle Street, Hobart and he later traded from a three storied establishment next to the old Guard House of Government House, at No.2 Elizabeth St Hobart. The 1837 purpose built warehouse and workshop included plate glass windows and was designed by Edinburgh born convict architect James Thomson. His wares were exhibited in Government House Ballroom prior to being sent to the Great Exhibition of All Nations in London in 1851. He also exhibited at the Inter-colonial Exhibition of Australasia in Melbourne in 1866–67. Hamilton retired in 1857 and returned, briefly, to Ireland, but the following year he re-established his Hobart business with his sons and continued to trade until 1876.
William Hutton & Sons
William Hutton & Sons was a silversmithing company founded in Birmingham, England in 1800. The company was founded by William Hutton, who was a silversmith and jeweller. The company moved to Sheffield in 1832, and in 1863, it opened a showroom in London. The company was known for its high-quality silver and silverplate and produced a wide range of items, including tableware, jewellery, and decorative objects. The company also produced electroplated silverware, which was a new and innovative product at the time.
The company won several awards for its products including a gold medal at the Great Exhibition of 1851, and it was also awarded a royal warrant by Queen Victoria. The company continued to operate until 1930, when it was acquired by James Dixon & Sons.
William Iv
William IV was King of the United Kingdom and King of Hanover from 26 June 1830 until his death in 1837, and in English furniture design it represented the brief period between the end of the Regency period, and the beginning of the Victorian period.
William Kent, Architect and Designer
William Kent was born in Bridlington, Yorkshire, England in 1685. He began his career as a sign and coach painter in London, where he developed his skills as an artist. He later studied under the painter and engraver, Godfrey Kneller, and began working as a scene painter for the theatre. In 1709, Kent won a scholarship to study in Rome, where he spent several years studying classical architecture, painting, and sculpture. He returned to England in 1719 and quickly established himself as one of the leading designers of the time.
Kent's designs were heavily influenced by the classical art he had studied in Italy, and he quickly gained a reputation for his innovative and distinctive style. He was a key figure in the development of the Georgian style of architecture, which was popular in England during the reigns of George I and George II.
Kent's work as an architect included the design of the Horse Guards in Whitehall, London, which was completed in 1750, two years after his death. He also designed a number of country houses, including Holkham Hall in Norfolk and Chiswick House in London. In addition to his architectural work, Kent was also a celebrated interior designer and furniture designer. He was known for his use of luxurious materials and his attention to detail, and his designs were highly sought after by the aristocracy and wealthy landowners of the time.
Kent was also a pioneer of landscape gardening, and he created a number of innovative and influential garden designs. He was a key figure in the development of the English landscape garden style, which emphasized naturalistic design and the creation of picturesque views. William Kent died in London in 1748 and was buried in St. Anne's Church, Soho. His influence on English art and design was profound, and his work continues to be celebrated and studied today.
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William Latchford & Sons
Operating in the 1960s, William Latchford & Sons based in Box Hill, Victoria was a contract furniture maker and the manufacturer. They held a licence for manufacturing Knoll International furniture including works by Jens Risom Breuer, Mies van der Rohe, Bertoia, Saarinen, Charles and Rae Eames and others.
William Morris
William Morris (1834-1896) was an English designer, writer, and socialist activist who is widely regarded as one of the most important figures of the Arts and Crafts movement.
Morris was born in Walthamstow, Essex, to a wealthy family. He attended Oxford University, where he became interested in the works of John Ruskin, a prominent critic of industrialization and advocate for traditional craftsmanship. After graduating, Morris began a career in architecture, but soon shifted his focus to design, in 1861 founding the decorative arts company Morris, Marshall, Faulkner & Co. (renamed Morris & Co. in 1875).
At Morris & Co., Morris designed and produced a wide range of decorative arts, including stained glass, wallpaper, and textiles, all of which were created using traditional craftsmanship techniques. He also designed furniture and other household objects, such as the iconic Morris chair.
In addition to his work as a designer, Morris was also a prolific writer and poet, and he played an important role in the Socialist League and other left-wing political organizations. He advocated for workers' rights and was a vocal critic of the negative impact of industrialization on the environment and society.
Morris continued to be active in the Arts and Crafts movement until his death in 1896. His legacy has been significant, as his work helped to inspire a renewed interest in traditional craftsmanship and design, and his writings and political activism continue to influence social and environmental movements today.
William Morris
William Morris (1834-96) was one of the key figures in the Arts and Crafts Movement.
The firm of Morris & Co. produced various types of furniture, mostly designed in collaboration with others and had an important influence in breaking with the over-ornate, vulgar and derivative traditions of the Victorian age.
The furniture was always very well made and always with an eye to beauty and originality of design, however plagiarized and hackneyed it may have become later on. But it was furniture intended for the machine age, and as Morris himself wrote: 'It is the allowing of machines to be our masters and not our servants that so injures the beauty of life nowadays'. Words that are equally as applicable today.
There are two types of chair known as a Morris chair both named after the design or influence of William Morris. The first is a reclining easy chair with upholstered seat and back and padded arms. The adjustable back fits into a series of grooves along the extended rear arms. In Australia the nearest equivalent would be the squatter's chair.
The second is a rush or cane seated cottage armchair, called a Sussex chair, usually made from ebonised or stained timber and which continued in popularity until the 1920s.
William Norrie
William Norrie (1832–1909) was a New Zealand furniture maker and decorative artist. He was born in Edinburgh, Scotland, in 1832, and emigrated to New Zealand with his family in 1852. He established a cabinetmaking business in Auckland in 1857, and quickly became one of the most respected furniture makers in the country. Norrie was known for his use of native New Zealand timbers, and his furniture was often inlaid with intricate designs. He also produced a range of decorative items, including clocks, mirrors, and picture frames. Norrie's furniture is highly sought-after by collectors today, and his work can be found in museums and private collections around the world.
Norrie was a self-taught craftsman, and he developed his own unique style of furniture making. He was inspired by the work of British cabinetmakers such as Thomas Sheraton and George Hepplewhite, but he also incorporated elements of Maori design into his work. Norrie's furniture is characterized by its elegant lines, its use of native New Zealand timbers, and its intricate inlay work. He was a prolific furniture maker, and he produced a wide range of pieces, including tables, chairs, beds, desks, and wardrobes. He also produced a range of decorative items, including clocks, mirrors, and picture frames. Norrie's furniture was often commissioned by wealthy clients, and it can be found in many of the grand homes of Auckland.
Norrie's furniture is highly sought-after by collectors today. His work is prized for its beauty, its craftsmanship, and its historical significance.
William Wallace Anderson
Australian sculptor William Wallace Anderson was born on May 24, 1888, in the town of Creswick, Victoria. He was the son of a Scottish-born miner and was raised in the gold-mining town of Bendigo, where he began his education in art. He later studied at the National Gallery School in Melbourne, where he was taught by artists such as Frederick McCubbin and Emanuel Phillips Fox.
After completing his studies, Anderson moved to London, where he studied at the Royal Academy of Arts from 1913 to 1915. He then returned to Australia and established himself as a prominent sculptor, producing many notable works throughout his career.
Anderson's style was characterized by a focus on realism and a strong attention to detail. His works often depicted figures from Australian history, as well as animals and other natural subjects. He was also known for his portraits, which captured the likeness and character of his subjects with great precision.
One of Anderson's most famous works is the bronze statue of the racehorse Phar Lap, which he completed in 1932. The statue, which stands outside the Flemington Racecourse in Melbourne, is a tribute to the legendary horse that won many races in Australia and overseas.
Anderson was awarded many accolades during his career, including the Order of the British Empire in 1964 and the Australian War Memorial Prize in 1965. He continued to work as a sculptor until his death on November 27, 1975, in the Melbourne suburb of Hawthorn. His works can be found in public collections in Australia, including the National Gallery of Victoria and the Australian War Memorial.
Willis & Co.
The brothers Richard and Thomas Willis arrived in Melbourne in 1858, and soon established themselves as jewellery importers and wholesalers. Over the next decade they becoming manufacturing jewellers. In 1874, the partnership was dissolved and the firm T. Willis & Co. came into being in 1875, under the control of Thomas & V. J. Willis. During the rest of the century the firm prospered, becoming importers of clocks, silver and electro-plated wares, as well as being wholesale jewellers and silversmiths, with premises in Melbourne Sydney and Perth. In 1904 the company changed it's name to Willis & Sons Pty. Ltd. selling to retailers throughout Australia. The manufacturing side of the business was closed in 1931 and the company reverted to importing.
Willow Pattern
Although several potteries including Minton and Spode claim credit for design of the Willow pattern, the design is generally attributed to Thomas Turner of Caughley Porcelain Works in Shropshire, about 1780.
Whilst borrowing from the Chinese style, it was not a copy of a Chinese pattern.
The blue-and-white chinaware on which it appeared became immensely popular and the design was reproduced with variations by many English and European factories including Royal Worcester, Spode, Adams, Wedgwood, Davenport, Clews, Leeds and Swansea.
It was even copied in Asia, where it is still produced, with the wares being exported to Western countries.
The pattern portrays the garden of a rich mandarin whose young daughter elopes with his secretary. The lovers, overtaken on the bridge by her father, are transformed by the gods into birds and flutter beyond his reach. The scene with its willow tree usually covers the central part of a plate, dish, or bowl, with a border of butterflies, a fret, or other motif.
Traditional Willow pattern is in cobalt blue on white, though very occasionally other colours are used, such as purple or brown. The main part of the object contains the trees, houses, bridge, figures, and birds of the story and there is usually a fairly abstract pattern around the extremities.
Willson, Thomas
The firm of Thomas Willson, cabinet makers and retailers was established in London in 1818 dealing in new and second-hand furniture. Some sources list the firm as furniture brokers only, but this is likely to be because the firm sold second-hand furniture, and overlooks the fact they also made new furniture.
A makers label on a Willson piece reads: "THOMAS WILLSON, Cabinet Maker, Upholsterer, & Co. 68 GREAT QUEEN STREET, Lincoln's Inn Fields, London. Every article of furniture for the Drawing, Dining, Bed Room and Library of first-class make."
From 1830 to 1837 the business was run by Thomas Willson's wife Mary, and from 1838 to 1854 by their son Matthew.
Willy Johansson
Willy Johansson (1921-1993) was a Norwegian glassware designer. Between 1939-42, he studied Statens Handvaerks -og Kunstindustriskole Oslo. His father worked at the Hadelands Glassverk, Jevnaker, where Willy Johansson joined the glassmaking workshop there in 1936. He was best known for the white rim on his clear or smoked glassware.
The father and son Johanssons contributed significantly to expanding the range and improving the quality of Hadelands’s tablewares. He designed mass production items, as well as one-off wares. From 1942-45, he worked in the sand blowing section at Hadelands under sculptor Staale Kyllingstad; from 1945-47, in the engraving workshop of Christiania Glasmagasin and at the night school of Statens Handvaerks -og Kunstindustriskole.
He won numerous international awards for his designs, including a diploma at the Milan Triennale in 1954, a gold medal in 1957 for his Tone vases and bowls and a silver medal in 1960. Thirteen of his works received the Award for Design from 1966 to 1972, and a series of wine glasses called Rod received the Classic Award for Design Excellence in 2002. Along with Jacob Prytz, he received the Jacob Prize the first year it was awarded in 1957.
His work is represented in design museums around the world, such as the Corning Museum of Glass in New York, and he had numerous solo exhibitions.
Willy Johansson remained with Hadeland until he retired in 1988.
Willy Rizzo
Willy Rizzo was an Italian photographer, furniture designer, and bon vivant who was a major figure in mid-century modern design. He was born in Naples in 1928 and began his career as a photographer in the early 1950s. His work quickly gained him a reputation for capturing the glamour and sophistication of the jet set, and he photographed some of the most famous people of his era, including Marilyn Monroe, Brigitte Bardot, and Salvador Dalí.
In 1966, Rizzo began designing furniture. His pieces were inspired by the clean lines and simple forms of mid-century modern design, but they also had a luxurious and sensual quality that was uniquely Rizzo. He used luxurious materials such as velvet, leather, and glass, and his designs often featured curvaceous forms and bold colours.
Rizzo's furniture was a commercial success, and he opened boutiques around the world to sell his designs. He also designed interiors for some of the most famous homes of his era, including the homes of Elizabeth Taylor, Frank Sinatra, and Gianni Agnelli.
Rizzo continued to design furniture until the late 1970s, when he returned to photography. He died in Paris in 2013 at the age of 84.
Wim Rietveld
Wim Rietveld (1924-1985) was a Dutch furniture designer who followed in the footsteps of his father, Gerrit Rietveld (1888-1964), one of the most important figures in 20th-century design. Wim Rietveld was born in 1924 in Utrecht, Netherlands and studied Industrial Design at the Hague Academy. He worked as a designer for Gispen and Ahrend de Cirkel and designed a number of iconic furniture pieces, including the Pyramid chair, the Oase lounge chair, and the Result drafting table. He also collaborated with other designers, such as Friso Kramer, on a number of projects. Rietveld's work has been exhibited in museums and galleries around the world and is part of many private collections.
His work is characterized by its simplicity, functionality, and use of easily accessible materials such as metal and laminated woods. He often focused on designing solutions for mass production, such as stackable chairs for efficient storage and packing.
Winchcombe Pottery
Winchcombe Pottery is a historic pottery located in the town of Winchcombe in Gloucestershire, England and is known for its traditional handcrafted pottery. The pottery was established in 1926 by Michael Cardew, an influential figure in the British studio pottery movement. Cardew had trained under renowned potter Bernard Leach and was known for his dedication to traditional techniques and craftsmanship.
Under Cardew's leadership, Winchcombe Pottery gained a reputation for producing high-quality, functional pottery inspired by traditional English and Oriental designs. The pottery embraced the ideals of the Arts and Crafts movement, emphasizing simplicity, beauty, and the importance of handmade objects.
Cardew's approach to pottery was rooted in the belief that the craft should be accessible to all. He encouraged local workers and apprentices to join him at the pottery, where they learned the skills and techniques of pottery making. This community-based approach became a defining characteristic of Winchcombe Pottery.
Throughout its history, Winchcombe Pottery has maintained its commitment to handmade pottery produced using traditional methods. The pottery's wares are made from local clay and fired in wood-burning kilns, which impart unique qualities to the finished pieces.
In 1946 Ray Finch bought the business from Cardew and restarted the potter. The staff expanded and students joined the pottery staff to learn the craft as they worked, many of them going on to become established potters in their own right. But the business was not as successful as hoped and in the early 1950s, the pottery was downsized. The last bottle kiln firing took place in 1954.
Finch had always been inspired by the Japanese potter Shoji Hamada, and starting experiments with stoneware in 1952. A new stoneware kiln was built and slipware production continued using electric kilns until 1964 when all production switched to stoneware. In 1974 a wood fired kiln was built to replace the oil fired kiln for stoneware production and is still in use. In the 1960s the pottery began to supply tableware to the Cranks chain of vegetarian restaurants.
Two of Ray Finch's sons followed their father's career: Mike Finch who ran Winchcombe Pottery for a time and Joe Finch who runs his own pottery in Wales. Ray Finch, who continued work into his nineties, died on 18 January 2012.
Windsor Chair
The Windsor chair, the prototype of most stick or spindle chairs, has been made since the 17th century and is probably the strongest, most enduring and most influential of all the wooden cottage chairs.
With the spread of the British Empire, the Windsor chair has been taken in all its diverse forms to every corner of the English-speaking world. In Britain, these chairs have traditionally been manufactured in the High Wycombe area of Buckinghamshire, hence the alternative name 'High Wycombe chairs'. The derivation of the name Windsor is uncertain and suggestions that it was bestowed by George III, who ordered some, have been largely dismissed.
Loudon, in his Encyclopedia describes Windsor chairs as 'one of the best kitchen chairs in general use in the midland counties of England' and his general description is still one of the most succinct:
The seats are usually of elm, somewhat hollowed out; the outer rail of the back is a single piece of ash, bent to a horseshoe form by being previously heated or steamed. Its ends are then inserted into two holes bored though the seat and are wedged firmly in from the underside. An additional support is given to the back by two round rails which are also made secure by insertion in two holes formed in a projecting part of the seat.
The chairs were sometimes painted but more frequently stained. Quicklime slacked in urine and laid on the wood while hot, was also used to stain the timber a red colour, and Loudon remarks that 'this is said to be the general practice with the Windsor chair manufacturers in the vicinity of London'.
There are many varieties. Some, made during the 18th century, were fitted with cabriole legs, but the results were a somewhat curious melange. The back spindles may consist of simple turned rods, flat laths or slats, but many contained a wide central vertical splat, usually pierced with a wheel or after the fashion established by Chippendale.
The stretchers may consist of straight, rounded and tapering spindles, or be decorated with simple turnings. Some 18th century versions had steam-bent curved stretchers known as 'crinolines'. The chairs were made both with and without arms. At first, the arm rests were supported by curved timbers, though these were later replaced by the typical 19th century baluster turned upright.
There are many versions and varieties, most of them imported but some surviving from the days of infant Australian enterprise, before the market was flooded with cheap American chairs in the latter part of the 19th century.
As with all dining chairs, the more chairs in the set, the more higher the price per chair. Many "sets" of Windsor chairs are what may be termed a "matched set" or "harlequin set", meaning the chairs are not a true set but closely matching, and therefore should be priced below the level of a true set.
Wine Cooler (silver)
Silver, silverplate and Sheffield plate wine coolers (also known as ice buckets or ice pails) accomodate only one bottle and are designed to sit on the table, in contrast to the much larger timber versions which hold many bottles and sit on the floor.
Shapes vary from a plain bucket to a more elaborate vase or urn shape and often include an interior container to hold the ice and bottle, and handles to the side to assist on moving.
Most wine coolers were manufactured from around the 1770s to the Victorian period.
Wine Cooler or Cellarette (wooden)
A cellarette is wooden container, either rectangular, round or sarcophagus shaped, the interior lined with zinc, lead or block tin, in which bottles of wine were cooled on ice in the dining room, prior to consumption. The interior casings were to prevent the ice-melt from leaking into the timber of unit.
The size and shape allowed it to be placed between the pedestals of a pedestal sideboard.
They are also sometimes called a wine sarcophagus, in reference to the shape of the top.
Many are mounted on castors to make moving easier.
The most common timber used in their manufacture was mahogany.
Stand-alone cellarettes were common in the 18th and early 19th century, before the function was incorporated into the body of the sideboard, in a "cellarette drawer".
Smaller versions, usually termed a wine cooler, were made in silver, glass and porcelain, and were designed to sit on top of a table or sideboard.
Wine Funnels
Wine funnells in silver, Sheffield plate and electroplate were mostly made between 1770 and 1820, their purpose being to remove sediment from wine decanted from the bottle to the decanter, or from the decanter to the glass.
Most wine funnels are one or two piece circular constructions with a fixed or removable strainer or gauze, or else an inner ring to hold a muslin straining cloth. They often also usually include a small hook on the rim.
Wine Labels
Popular with collectors, wine labels, also known as wine tickets, came into use in the 1730s. Early silver wine labels are likely to be escutcheon or shield shaped. Later labels were rectangular, eye-shaped, or crescent shaped. Silver labels of the 1820s onwards often feature vine leaves and tendrils. Enamel labels were also made from the 1750s, and these sometimes bear images as well as the name of the wine. Sheffield plate and electroplate were also utilised, as the materials came into use and less frequently, porcelain, ivory, tortoiseshell, mother-of-pearl, and bone. Labels bearing the names of unusual or unlikely wines are especially sought after, so the names of the more common wines may sometimes have been replaced by a more exotic wine.
Wine Table
A small pedestal table, usually on a tripod base, with a round or square top. Used as an occasional side table, and handy to place wine glasses.
Wine Tasters (tastevin / Tasse De Vin)
Silver wine tasters, also known as tastevins or tasses de vin, have a long history closely intertwined with wine culture and the sommelier profession. These small, shallow cups made of silver or other metals were traditionally used by wine professionals to assess and taste wine. The origin of the tastevin can be traced back to the Burgundy region of France, renowned for its vineyards and fine wines. In the 17th and 18th centuries, the wine industry in Burgundy flourished, and tastevins became an essential tool for wine merchants, sommeliers, and winegrowers.
The primary purpose of a tastevin is to examine the colour, clarity, and consistency of wine. Its concave shape and polished surface allow the taster to observe the wine's hue, as well as detect any sediments or impurities. The elevated sides and notched edges provide additional reflections, aiding in the assessment of the wine's clarity. Tastevins were typically made of silver due to the metal's reflective properties and resistance to corrosion. Silver tastevins were often engraved with elaborate designs, initials, or coat-of-arms, adding a touch of elegance and personalization.
As wine tasting evolved into a refined practice, the tastevin became a symbol of expertise and status among wine professionals. Sommeliers would wear tastevins on a chain or ribbon around their necks during tastings and presentations, showcasing their knowledge and experience. In addition to their practical use, tastevins were also employed for ceremonial purposes. They were frequently used during wine festivals, cellar tastings, and prestigious wine competitions. Tastevins were employed to pour wine into, allowing tasters to savor small amounts of wine without having to consume an entire glass.
The tradition of tastevins gradually spread beyond Burgundy, gaining popularity among wine enthusiasts and professionals in other regions. Although the primary function of the tastevin has evolved with advancements in wine tasting techniques, these silver cups remain cherished as collectable items and symbols of the wine culture.
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Wingback Chair
A chair, usually upholstered, with extended wings on either side of the head rest, essentially to keep draughts away from the occupant. Introduced in the early 18th century they have remained popular ever since. Their other advantage is that they help to hide the sitter from view which is convenient for the reader who does not wish to be interrupted.
Winks and Hall
Winks and Hall was a prominent cabinetmaking company based in Auckland, New Zealand, during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The company was founded in 1878 by William Winks and Thomas Hall, who were both skilled cabinetmakers. They established their business on Victoria Street in central Auckland and quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality furniture and fittings.
Winks and Hall's early work included fitting out the interiors of many of Auckland's grandest buildings, including the Auckland Town Hall and the Bank of New Zealand building. They also supplied furniture to some of Auckland's wealthiest families. In 1901, Winks and Hall won a prestigious commission to design and fit out the interior of Government House, the official residence of the Governor-General of New Zealand. Their work on this project was highly praised and helped to cement their reputation as one of Auckland's leading cabinetmaking firms.
Over the years, Winks and Hall's business grew and they expanded their operations to include a factory in the suburb of Mount Eden. The company continued to produce high-quality furniture and fittings throughout the first half of the 20th century. In the 1950s, Winks and Hall merged with another Auckland cabinetmaking firm, Brown and Campbell, to form Winks, Hall and Campbell. The new company continued to operate for several decades before eventually closing its doors in the 1980s.
Winston Churchill
Winston Churchill (1874-1965) was a British politician, writer, and statesman who served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1940 to 1945 and again from 1951 to 1955. Churchill is widely regarded as one of the greatest wartime leaders of the 20th century, and his speeches and writings are celebrated for their eloquence and inspiration.
Churchill was born into an aristocratic family in Oxfordshire, England, and he attended the prestigious Harrow School before entering the military. He served in a number of conflicts, including the Second Boer War in South Africa, and he gained a reputation as a brave and tenacious fighter.
In 1900, Churchill entered politics as a member of the Conservative Party, and he quickly established himself as a forceful and outspoken voice in Parliament. He held a number of positions in the government over the years, including First Lord of the Admiralty and Chancellor of the Exchequer.
Churchill's greatest moment came during World War II, when he served as Prime Minister during some of the darkest days of the conflict. He rallied the British people with his stirring speeches and his determination to fight on against Nazi Germany, and he worked closely with other Allied leaders, including U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt and Soviet Premier Joseph Stalin, to achieve victory.
After the war, Churchill remained an influential figure in British politics, and he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1953 for his writing and speeches. He retired from politics in 1955, but he continued to write and speak publicly until his death in 1965. Churchill is remembered as a towering figure in British history, and his legacy as a wartime leader and eloquent orator continues to inspire people around the world.
There is a wide range of memorabilia associated with Winston Churchill, reflecting his long and distinguished career in British politics and his status as a global icon including speeches and writings, official documents, paintings (by Churchill), photographs and portraits, pottery figurines and ashtrays.
Wisden
The Wisden Cricketers' Almanack, commonly referred to as
"Wisden", is a cricket reference book published annually in the
United Kingdom. The publication was first established in 1864 by John Wisden, a
former English cricketer, who wanted to create a reference book that would
provide cricket enthusiasts with a comprehensive guide to the sport.
The first edition of Wisden was a slim, yellow-covered
booklet that cost one shilling. It contained the scores of the most significant
matches played in the previous year, along with a brief summary of the season's
events. Over time, the publication expanded to include articles, opinion
pieces, and statistical data.
In 1889, Wisden introduced its most famous feature, the
"Five Cricketers of the Year" award, which recognizes the top players
of the previous season. The award is still presented annually and is considered
one of the highest honors in the sport.
Over the years, Wisden has become an essential part of the
cricket world, with many players and enthusiasts considering it the sport's
bible. The publication has also been influential in shaping the sport, with
many of its articles and opinions helping to shape the way cricket is played
and perceived.
In addition to the annual publication, Wisden has also
produced a range of other cricket-related books, including biographies,
histories, and guides. The Wisden Cricket Monthly, a cricket magazine, was also
published between 1979 and 2003.
Wisden remains one of the most respected and prestigious
cricket publications in the world, providing cricket enthusiasts with a
comprehensive guide to the sport and helping to shape the way cricket is played
and perceived.
Wmf (wurttembergische Metallwarenfabrik)
WMF (Wurttembergische Metallwarenfabrik) is a German company that was founded in 1853 by Daniel Straub as a small metalware factory in Geislingen an der Steige, a town in the state of Baden-Württemberg. The company became known as the Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik in 1880, following the merger of Straub & Schweizer of Geislingen and A. Ritter & Co. of Esslingen. The factory's main production was of metal and electroplated household wares, but they also made electrotype reproductions of historical metalware.
Initially, WMF produced household items such as cutlery, scissors, and kitchen tools, but the company expanded its product range over the years to include decorative metal objects and luxury goods such as champagne buckets and candelabras. WMF also became known for its innovative designs, which incorporated elements of Art Nouveau and other contemporary art movements.
In the early 20th century, WMF began to produce silver-plated tableware and other decorative objects, which were popular among the growing middle class in Europe and the United States. WMF's silver-plated items were distinguished by their high quality and attention to detail, and the company won numerous awards for its designs at international exhibitions.
During World War II, WMF's factories were damaged and appropriated and production was severely curtailed. After the war, the company struggled to recover, but by the 1960s, WMF had once again become a major producer of high-quality metalware.
In the late 20th century, WMF expanded into other areas such as cookware and coffee machines, and the company has continued to innovate with new materials and technologies. Today, WMF is a global brand with a presence in over 100 countries, and the company's products are known for their quality, durability, and design.
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Worcester / Royal Worcester
Among the most popular of the English porcelain factories among collectors is Royal Worcester. The Worcester porcelain company was founded in 1751.
The First Period of Worcester (1751-76) is sometimes called the Dr. Wall period after John Wall, one of the founders and major shareholders. During this period, Worcester was using the formula for soft paste porcelain which was obtained when they took over Lund's Bristol Porcelain works in 1752.
Worcester also introduced the use of transfer printing on porcelain in 1757, which reduced the need for hand painting which was time consuming and expensive.
In 1783 Thomas Flight purchased the factory for his sons Joseph & John. This period led to a change in the porcelain paste used, achieving a much better, whiter body. The style of decoration during this period became much more neoclassical in style.
In 1793 Martin Barr became a partner in the firm. As the partnership changed so did the names, Barr, Flight, Barr (1807-13), Flight Barr, Barr (1813-40).
In 1840 Worcester amalgamated with the Chamberlains' factory, also located at Worcester, but still producing from both works. Worcester eventually moved its entire operations into the more up to date Chamberlain's factory in 1847, becoming known as Chamberlain's Worcester. In 1852 W.H. Kerr joined the firm, which was renamed Kerr & Binns.
In 1862, it was renamed the Royal Worcester Porcelain Company, and more everyday works were produced.
In 1976 the company merged with Spode and the company reduced its staff from 2003 to 2005, with the company going into administration in 2008 and then ceasing trading in 2009. The trading name and brands (including Spode), but not the factories in Stoke-on-Trent, were acquired by Portmeiron Pottery Group.
Wristwatch Chronometers
A wristwatch chronometer is a type of watch that is designed to be extremely accurate and precise. Chronometers are certified by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC), which is an independent organization that tests and certifies the accuracy of timepieces.
To earn the designation of a chronometer, the watch must meet certain strict standards of accuracy and precision. The movement of the watch must be certified to keep time within -4 to +6 seconds per day, and it must pass a series of tests in various positions and temperatures to ensure that it maintains its accuracy in all conditions.
Chronometers are often made by high-end watch manufacturers, and they are prized by collectors for their precision and reliability. Many chronometers are also designed with additional features such as multiple time zones, stopwatches, and other functions that are useful for pilots, sailors, and other professionals who rely on accurate timekeeping in their work.
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A rectangular box, usually portable which, when opened, folds down to reveal a sloped writing surface. Usually equipped with small ink wells and pen holders.
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A spirally twisted ornamentation most commonly found on antique glass, silver, ceramics and furniture.