Handpainting Poole Pottery: A Tradition of Craftsmanship

In the heart of Middleport Pottery, Staffordshire, a quiet artistry unfolds as Jane, one of Poole Pottery’s highly skilled paintresses, brings life to each piece with her brush. Every design is hand-painted, ensuring no two items are ever the same—a true testament to the craftsmanship embedded in Poole Pottery’s rich history. 

From the swirling depths of *Ocean*, evoking the textures, shapes, and colours of the sea, to the lush green contours of *Maya*, inspired by the rolling English countryside, each collection is a work of art. These designs are not simply painted; they are carefully composed, layered, and blended, creating striking, organic effects unique to Poole Pottery. 

The process begins once the pottery has undergone its first firing and received a base decoration of coloured glaze. Then, the real magic begins. Following a general guideline, Jane meticulously hand-paints each piece, allowing the glaze to flow and interact in its own unpredictable way. The chemistry of the kiln ensures that every item is entirely individual, as the glazes transform in response to the intense heat. 

Larger items are proudly signed, a mark of their handcrafted origin. Yet, even the smallest pieces - where space does not allow for a signature - receive the same level of dedication and attention, making every Poole Pottery creation a special one. 

Poole Pottery has taken many forms throughout its history, adapting while always staying true to its artistic roots. Since moving to Staffordshire where every piece of Poole is now handcrafted, and finding its home with Burgess & Leigh makers of the renowned Burleigh Ware since 1851—the brand has centred on a collection of design-led shapes that have become highly collectable. The ever-growing range includes innovative ceramic animals, from birds and fish to tortoises, with new designs introduced each year. 

This year Poole unveiled a new shape 'Keystone', a new vase inspired by the architectural keystone, symbolising both strength and beauty. As Poole continues to evolve, its commitment to handcraftsmanship and artistic excellence remains at the heart of every creation.