The brothers John & Richard Riley came from a North Staffordshire farming family and were likely trained as potters in Lane End (Longton) in the late 18th century, beginning in business for themselves about 1796. They first leased a pottery in Nile Street Burslem, but in 1811 purchased the Hill House estate in Burslem where they rebuilt the manufactory. The factory produced a full range of ceramics of which printed earthenware was only a part. Both brothers died in 1828 and in 1831 an advertisement selling the stock, engraving, moulds, and other effects of the late Messrs. J. R. Riley included engraved copper plates of many named designs and a range of shapes including plates, jug sets, toilet sets, table services, egg cups and aptly “mourning plates”.
To see printed designs by J. & Riley in this exhibit click here