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Peter Woodger a long time researcher and
dealer in all areas of Worcester ceramics, has written and published
what is the defining work on James Hadley regarded as the finest
ceramic modeller and designer of the 19th century.
This book focuses on Hadley's own manufacture of his wares from
1895 to 1905.
Collectors of Royal Worcester porcelain will well be aware of
the work of Hadley as he was employed by the Royal Worcester
Porcelain Company from 1852 to 1875 as an Artist Modeller for
porcelain. In 1875 he left the Royal Worcester company to become
a freelance modeller and designer, although his models were almost
exclusively supplied to the Royal Worcester Porcelain Company,
and was recognised in particular for his range of superb figure
models. In 1895 the Royal Worcester company decided to terminate
its agreement with James Hadley and he was given 6 weeks notice
( thus the simile all your the eggs in one basket became harsh
reality for Mr. Hadley).
Locke and Company another Worcester Porcelain manufacturer rented
space and kiln time to James Hadley and Sons and the earliest
pieces of his own manufacture were made there. James Hadley and
sons along with a partner eventually opened their own factory
and commenced manufacture of his designs. James suffering from
poor health died in 1903 and the works continued until the eventual
closure of the premises and takeover by Royal Worcester in 1905.
The above is my simple abbreviation of
the facts, but the complete history and background to the family,
workforce, factory and other events is covered in great detail
in the book.
Apart from comprehensive information on the artists, pattern
numbers, model numbers, factory marks etc. the main section of
this book is a complete illustrated list of shapes produced at
the factory. Most of the colour illustrations were obtained by
the author over a number of years and the black and white illustrations
come from a unique collection of copper plate designs and glass
plate photographs held at the Royal Worcester Museum. As well
as dating the items accurately for the first time a guide to
rarity is given for each shape.
An important gap in Worcester ceramic history has now been filled
and owners and collectors of these porcelains will now be able
to fully comprehend the history and facts concerning the most
talented ceramic modeller of the 19th century.
In the words of Geoffrey Godden written in 1988 " James
Hadley's work is unusual in that the great majority of his models
and his later productions were of an ornamental nature."
" In general, the Hadley wares have not received the attention
they deserve and a good, interesting and decorative collection
could be formed of these somewhat neglected porcelains."
If you have any questions regarding the content of
this new publication please contact us and we will be pleased
to offer further information and advise.
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