A Christopher Dresser design for Linthorpe Pottery Art Vase by Henry Tooth c1880. Drip glaze of vivid blue lustre colours over a deep brown and russet body. Abstract aztec-inspired design front and back, on an ovoid body with cylindrical neck to a gently fluted rim, with twin handles. Minor restoration to rim. Incised Chr. Dresser signature and mark for Linthorpe with monogram for Henry Tooth. The vase is 20cm in height.
 
In 1879 John Harrison (a local businessman) established Linthorpe Pottery in conjunction with Christopher Dresser, one of the most influential designers of the late 19th century. Dresser acted as artistic director at the Pottery until 1882 and continued to submit designs whilst the Pottery remained in production. Dresser recommended Henry Tooth, an artist from Buckinghamshire working at that time on the Isle of Wight, as pottery manager. Henry Tooth, with no prior experience of clay or pottery left Ryde for Linthorpe, spending time at the T.G. Green pottery in Church Gresley, Derbyshire to get a foundation in ceramics. Henry Tooth had brought Richard Patey with him from the Isle of Wight, who managed the pottery after he left in 1882 (to establish to Bretby Pottery in partnership with William Ault). Linthorpe Pottery was only in existence between 1879 and 1889. For more information on Linthorpe Pottery visit our Maker's History pages.