News & Press

This exceptional Flight and Barr tea and coffee service has been entered into the forthcoming Fine Art and Antique auction on January 28^th. 

A rare service to find in the 21^st century because not only is it in excellent condition, but importantly – it is complete.  For a little history on the origins of Worcester, one of the oldest and most revered types of English porcelain, read on!

The company was founded in 1751 by Dr. John Wall, an influential entrepreneur in Worcester, and William Davis, a skilled artisan with a scientific background. Wall had been influenced by the secretive and highly coveted art of porcelain-making in the far east. In the 18^th century, porcelain was an expensive and highly sought-after material, prized for its delicate beauty and translucent quality.

The materials and method used to produce hard-paste porcelain in England at the time were not available. However, Wall and Davis were undeterred. They experimented and refined their production process and in 1755 the Worcester factory began to produce a soft-paste porcelain which matched the quality produced by the Chinese.

This breakthrough marked Worcester porcelain as a true competitor to European porcelain manufacturers, such as those in Meissen, Dresden, and Sèvres. The factory's skilled artisans and decorators created some of the finest porcelain pieces in Europe, featuring intricate hand-painted designs, including floral motifs, chinoiserie patterns, and elaborate gilding. Worcester became highly desirable among the European elite, especially the aristocracy and emerging middle class.

In 1788 George III, following a visit to the company, granted a royal warrant, and it became known as the "Royal Porcelain Works" This royal connection further elevated the brand’s prestige.  However, the late 18^th century marked a difficult financial period for the firm and the quality of porcelain suffered.  Changes of ownership took place and by the turn of the century the firm was under the management of Thomas Flight (a previous agent) and Martin Barr previously of the Thomas Turner's Caughley Factory.

Under new management and with continued investment in innovation, Worcester porcelain revived in the early 19th century. In the 1820s, Worcester introduced new styles and patterns, including the famous "Imari" design, inspired by Japanese porcelain, and the “Birds and Flowers” patterns that remain iconic in the history of English porcelain.

Today, Worcester porcelain remains one of the most respected names in the history of English ceramics. Antique pieces from the factory are highly collectible, and the tradition of quality porcelain production continues to be celebrated in the modern world.

For more information or advice on ceramics, please don’t hesitate to get in touch on 0114 279 6959 or email: info@ewbauctions.com. Our senior valuers will only be too happy to help.