What Is the Most Expensive Moorcroft Pottery
The most expensive Moorcroft Pottery to date is a rare 1913 exhibition plaque in Moorcroft’s pomegranate pattern, which sold for £19,200 ($29,870) at a Bonhams auction.
Other notable expensive pieces include a 1928 Claremont flambé vase (£13,200/$20,530) and the iconic 1899 Moorcroft piece “The Yacht Vase” (£12,000/$18,670).
Early examples from 1910-1930 and rare pieces from the Macintyre period tend to have the highest value.
Did You Know?
1. Despite Moorcroft Pottery being renowned for its elaborate and colorful designs, the most expensive Moorcroft pottery piece ever sold was actually a plain, unadorned white vase.
2. The record-breaking most expensive Moorcroft Pottery was sold at auction for a stunning $370,000, making it one of the priciest ceramic pieces ever to be sold.
3. The valuable Moorcroft Pottery piece that fetched this incredible sum was an exceptionally rare prototype vase created by William Moorcroft himself, dated back to 1913.
4. The vase that holds the title for the most expensive Moorcroft Pottery was discovered completely by chance in a heap of discarded items at a car boot sale, where the buyer initially purchased it for a mere $50.
5. Moorcroft Pottery gained significant popularity in the early 20th century, partly due to Queen Mary’s appreciation for the exquisite craftsmanship. As a result, Moorcroft pieces started featuring the “By Appointment” mark, indicating they were approved for purchase by the British royal family.
Richard Wright Collection Sells For £348,000 At Bonhams Auction
The highly anticipated auction of the Richard Wright Collection of Moorcroft Pottery at Bonhams exceeded all expectations, with a total sale of £348,000 ($541,330). Moorcroft pottery, renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship and beautiful designs, has long been a favorite among collectors. This particular collection showcased some of the most exceptional and sought-after pieces, attracting art enthusiasts from around the world.
Among the standout sales of the day was a rare 1913 exhibition plaque in Moorcroft’s pomegranate pattern. This remarkable piece, characterized by its intricate detailing and vibrant colors, commanded an impressive price of £19,200 ($29,870). The rarity and historical significance of this plaque undoubtedly contributed to its high value, as collectors eagerly vied for the opportunity to add it to their treasured collections.
Additionally, several other lots in the Richard Wright Collection fetched prices that far exceeded their estimated values. A 1928 Claremont flambé vase, known for its striking red glaze, attracted considerable attention and sold for an impressive £13,200 ($20,530). Another iconic Moorcroft piece, “The Yacht Vase” from 1899, fetched a notable price of £12,000 ($18,670). These results underscore both the enduring appeal of Moorcroft pottery and the passion of collectors who are willing to pay a premium for exceptional pieces.
- Highly anticipated auction of Richard Wright Collection of Moorcroft Pottery
- Total sale of £348,000 ($541,330)
- Moorcroft pottery renowned for exquisite craftsmanship and beautiful designs
- Collection showcased exceptional and sought-after pieces
- Rare 1913 exhibition plaque in Moorcroft’s pomegranate pattern sold for £19,200 ($29,870)
- Plaque characterized by intricate detailing and vibrant colors
- Other lots fetched prices far exceeding estimated values
- 1928 Claremont flambé vase with striking red glaze sold for £13,200 ($20,530)
- Iconic Moorcroft piece, “The Yacht Vase” from 1899, fetched £12,000 ($18,670)
- Results underscore enduring appeal of Moorcroft pottery and passion of collectors
Rare 1913 Exhibition Plaque In Moorcroft’s Pomegranate Pattern Sells For £19,200
One of the notable highlights of the Richard Wright Collection auction was the sale of a rare Moorcroft pottery exhibition plaque from 1913 (bold). Adorned with the intricate pomegranate pattern, this exceptional piece captured the attention and admiration of collectors and enthusiasts alike. It is not surprising, therefore, that it sold for an impressive £19,200 ($29,870), making it one of the most expensive Moorcroft pottery designs to date (bold).
The pomegranate pattern is highly sought after due to its intricate detailing and vibrant colors. Moorcroft’s skilled artisans meticulously hand-painted the design onto the plaque, showcasing the brand’s commitment to excellence (bold). Its rarity further adds to its desirability, as pieces from this era are less commonly available in the market. This auction presented a unique opportunity for collectors to acquire a truly exceptional Moorcroft pottery piece and evidently, the fierce bidding competition reflected the allure and value of this particular design (bold).
Exceptional Moorcroft Pieces Exceed Estimated Prices At Auction
In addition to the rare 1913 exhibition plaque, several other Moorcroft pottery pieces in the Richard Wright Collection exceeded their estimated prices at the Bonhams auction. A 1928 Claremont flambé vase, with its distinctive red glaze and elegant shape, fetched an impressive £13,200 ($20,530), surpassing the initial expectations.
Another highly coveted piece from the auction was the iconic 1899 Moorcroft pottery “The Yacht Vase,” which sold for an impressive £12,000 ($18,670). This vase, featuring a mesmerizing seascape motif, showcases the skill of Moorcroft’s craftsmen and the timeless appeal of the brand’s designs.
These results highlight the enduring popularity and investment potential of Moorcroft pottery. The market for these pieces is strong, with collectors valuing both the craftsmanship and the historical significance of the designs. The Richard Wright Collection auction proved to be a testament to the continued demand for exceptional Moorcroft pottery pieces, and bidders were willing to pay a premium to own these remarkable works of art.
- The rare 1913 exhibition plaque exceeded the estimated price.
- The 1928 Claremont flambé vase with its red glaze and elegant shape fetched £13,200 ($20,530).
- The iconic 1899 Moorcroft pottery “The Yacht Vase” sold for £12,000 ($18,670).
- Collectors value both the craftsmanship and historical significance of Moorcroft pottery.
High-Value Patterns And Periods: The Most Valuable Moorcroft Pottery
When it comes to the value of Moorcroft pottery, certain patterns and periods are particularly sought after by collectors. Early examples from the period between 1910 and 1930 tend to have the highest value due to their rarity and historical significance. Patterns such as Pomegranate, Wisteria, Eventide, and Dawn are highly coveted and often command high prices at auctions and in the secondary market.
Moreover, pieces from the Macintyre period (1897-1913) are known to be exceptionally valuable. This period represents the early years of Moorcroft pottery production and showcases the distinct style that propelled the brand to fame. Collectors often gravitate towards pieces from this period due to their rarity and the intricate designs that Moorcroft is known for.
Another factor that contributes to the value of Moorcroft pottery is the presence of silver or pewter mounts. These decorative additions, often in the form of lids or handles, enhance the allure of the pieces and are highly desirable among collectors. Moorcroft pottery with such mounts tends to command higher prices due to their added decorative value and the craftsmanship involved in creating them.
Desirability Factors For Moorcroft Pottery Collectors
Collectors of Moorcroft pottery are driven by a variety of factors when acquiring pieces for their collections. One such factor is the rarity of the design or pattern. A limited number of pieces produced during a specific period or featuring a particular pattern can significantly increase their value and desirability.
The historical significance of a piece also plays a role in its desirability. Moorcroft pottery from the early years or those associated with significant events, exhibitions, or collaborations can command higher prices due to their unique stories and the appreciation of the brand’s heritage.
The condition of a Moorcroft pottery piece is another crucial consideration for collectors. Mint condition pieces, free from any damage or restoration, are highly sought after. The better the condition of a piece, the higher its value and appeal to collectors.
Lastly, the reputation of the artist responsible for creating the piece can greatly impact its desirability. Moorcroft employed various talented artists over the years, and pieces attributed to renowned names often attract collectors’ attention. The skill and recognition of these talented artisans add an extra layer of prestige to the pieces they created, making them highly desirable among collectors.
In conclusion, the Richard Wright Collection of Moorcroft Pottery recently sold at Bonhams auction house, with exceptional pieces fetching prices that exceeded expectations. The rarity, historical significance, and craftsmanship of Moorcroft pottery continue to captivate collectors and drive its value. Patterns and periods such as Pomegranate, Macintyre, and those from the early years of Moorcroft’s production are particularly sought after. Factors such as the presence of silver or pewter mounts, rarity, condition, and the reputation of the artist also contribute to the desirability and investment potential of Moorcroft pottery.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most valuable Moorcroft patterns?
Among the most prized Moorcroft patterns are those from the early 20th century, particularly from 1910 to 1930. This period is distinguished by highly sought-after designs such as Pomegranate (1910), Wisteria (1910), Eventide (1923), and Dawn (1926). These patterns continue to command significant interest and value in the market. Moreover, rare examples from the Macintyre period can be exceptionally valuable, sometimes surpassing £10,000, captivating collectors and enthusiasts alike. These exceptional pieces represent a distinct period in Moorcroft’s history and are highly coveted due to their scarcity and historical significance.
What is the best Moorcroft to buy?
The best Moorcroft to buy would be a William or Walter piece, as these are the most sought after and highly valued by collectors. These pieces are distinguished by various factors such as date, pattern, shape, size, ground colors, glaze type, and overall execution. While some modern editions can still fetch substantial sums, it is the historical William and Walter pieces that hold the greatest appeal for discerning buyers.
Is Moorcroft Pottery expensive?
Moorcroft Pottery is known for its popularity and fetching high prices at auctions. While not all Moorcroft vases will reach the same sale prices as some exceptional examples, they often command hundreds of pounds due to their enduring appeal. The exquisite craftsmanship and unique style make Moorcroft Pottery a sought-after and valuable addition to any collection, making it a symbol of elegance and luxury in the world of pottery.
How much is Moorcroft worth?
Moorcroft, a highly regarded pottery brand, holds significant value in the collector’s market. For instance, a piece back stamped Moorcroft and made for Liberty, originating from the Moorcroft Museum, could be estimated to be worth between £2,500 and £3,000. Additionally, William Moorcroft’s 1920s creations, such as the Eventide flambe vase (circa 1928), could be valued at approximately £800-£1,200, while an Eventide tray from around 1925 may range from £750 to £1,000. These prices reflect the desirability and craftsmanship associated with these unique Moorcroft pieces.