Antique Vases

Antique vases for sale

Many of our antique vases were made in England hold a rich history and carry the craftsmanship of bygone eras. English pottery and porcelain manufacturers have been producing exquisite vases for centuries, each piece reflecting the design trends, techniques, and cultural influences of its time.

We also have a selection of vintage and contemporary vases for sale. 

See all vases for sale

Popular English antique china vase manufacturers

  1. Wedgwood: The name Wedgwood is synonymous with quality and craftsmanship. Josiah Wedgwood, an English potter, founded the Wedgwood company in the mid-18th century. Known for their iconic blue and white Jasperware, Wedgwood vases often feature classical motifs, mythological scenes, and intricate relief work.
  2. Spode: Spode, another renowned English ceramics manufacturer, has a history dating back to the late 18th century. Spode vases are celebrated for their detailed hand-painted designs, particularly those inspired by nature, botanicals, and landscapes.
  3. Royal Doulton: Royal Doulton, established in the 19th century, produced a wide range of decorative vases. Many of their pieces exhibit a blend of traditional and contemporary styles, often adorned with detailed hand-painted scenes, intricate patterns, or raised relief work.

Popular Antique Vase Design and Styles:

  1. Blue and White Transferware: A hallmark of English ceramics, the blue and white transferware style gained popularity in the 18th and 19th centuries. Scenes depicting pastoral landscapes, historic events, or exotic locales were transferred onto the vases using intricate blue patterns.
  2. Victorian: During the Victorian era, ornate and elaborate vase designs were in vogue. English antique vases from this period often featured intricate gilding, hand-painted floral motifs, and elaborate handles. The shapes ranged from slender and elegant to more robust and imposing designs. Some very large vases were made during this period 
  3. Art Nouveau and Art Deco: In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, English antique vases reflected the influences of Art Nouveau and later, Art Deco movements. These vases embraced flowing lines, organic forms, and bold geometric patterns, showcasing the changing aesthetic tastes of their time.

Materials and Techniques:

  1. Porcelain and bone china: English vases were predominantly crafted from porcelain and bone china. These materials, known for their translucency and delicacy, allowed for intricate detailing and fine painting. Bone china, in particular, added a luxurious touch to many high-end English antique vases.
  2. Hand-painted: Many antique English vases were adorned with exquisite hand-painted details. Skilled artisans meticulously painted scenes, floral patterns, and decorative motifs onto the surface of the vases, creating unique and personalised works of art.
  3. Majolica Ware: Some English vases, especially those from the Victorian era, embraced the colourful and distinctive majolica ware style. These vases were often adorned with bold glazes and three-dimensional designs, depicting natural elements like leaves, fruits, and flowers.