There were many potteries in Bristol during the 17the, 18th, and 19th centuries. The printed mark “Bristol Pottery” found in this exhibition relates to a pottery in Water Lane, Bristol. The Ring family of potters were involved in the concern from the 1780s together with Henry Carter and by 1800 were trading as Henry Carter & Company. A third partner, John Decimus Poutney was soon admitted and he eventually took over the concern in 1815.
On March 4, 1802 the Bristol Gazette and Public Advertiser carried the following notice
Bristol Pottery, Temple Backs. Henry Carter, Manufacturer of Blue Printed, Enamelled Table Services, Blue, Green, and Colour Edged Painted, and Cream-Coloured Wares, etc, etc. Takes the liberty to solicit the orders of Merchants, Captains and Dealers, which, in consequence of constantly employing more than One Hundred People in the manufacturing of the above articles, he can execute at short notice, and on the most advantageous terms. He also claims the attention of the public to his large and extensive Ware-Room, at Mrs. Ring’s, No. 14 Bath Street opposite the Porter Brewery, where families can be supplied with Services, Desert Sets, etc. etc. – Also every other useful and ornamental article, and which, from his extensive connections, combined with his own manufacture, he is enabled to sell on much lower terms than any other person in this City. Japanned Tea Trays, waiters, etc. etc. Table and Desert Services, enamelled with Arms, Crests, Cyphers, etc.
For a Bristol Pottery mug in this exhibition click here
For detailed information about Bristol Potters and Potteries see Reg. Jackson’s research at www.bristolpottersandpotteries.org.uk/