MARTINWARE DOUBLE-SIDED FACE JUG FEATURES IN KEYS' SPRING FINE SALE
A ‘very collectable’ double-sided Martinware face jug dating from 1911 goes under the hammer as part of Keys Auctioneers two day spring Fine Sale on Wednesday 25th and Thursday 26th March.
The jug, a good example of ‘grotesque ware’ typical of that made by R.W.Martin Bros from the late 19th century onwards, stands 15cm high, and has a pre-sale estimate of £1,200-£1,500.
The four Martin Brothers (Wallace, Walter, Charles and Edwin) manufactured pottery in London from 1873 until the pottery closed on the outbreak of the First World War in 1914; very small-scale production continued until the last of the four brothers, Wallace, died in 1923.
“This is a very collectable piece – grotesque Martinware jugs have proven popular with collectors, being generally more accessible than their sculptural pieces, which can sell for big prices,” said David Broom, ceramics specialist at Keys, which is based in Aylsham, Norfolk.