Portmeirion pottery has long been celebrated for its exquisite designs and craftsmanship. Among its most charming pieces are the vintage egg holders and other unique items that have captivated collectors and pottery enthusiasts alike.
Key points
These timeless pieces not only serve as functional kitchenware but also as beautiful decorative items that add character to any home.
Kirkham Egg Holders
Before the convenience of modern refrigerators, egg holders were a common sight in households, ensuring eggs stayed fresh longer in cool larders. Portmeirion Potteries, carrying on the tradition of Kirkham Pottery, continued to produce the iconic hen-shaped egg holders. These delightful pieces came in various sizes and colors, with each hen carefully crafted to showcase intricate details, from the feathers to the woven basket base.
One of the standout designs is the brown ‘Rockingham’ glaze hen, known as the Size Two Hen, which was retired in 1983. Its rich, deep glaze and sharp detailing set it apart from generic egg holders of the time. If you compare it to a lesser-known maker’s version, the difference in quality is evident. The Portmeirion hen boasts a more convincing and detailed design, making it a favorite among collectors.
White Duck Egg Holder
In 1975, Susan Ellis-Williams, a renowned designer at Portmeirion, introduced her only bird model—a white duck-shaped egg holder. This unique piece was signed by Ellis-Williams and featured two chicks peeking out from beneath the duck’s wing. The duck lid was sold atop the basket base of the No. 1 hen-shaped holder, making it a distinctive addition to any collection.
The white duck egg holder was produced until 1983, and today, it is a highly sought-after collectible, particularly due to the designer’s signature. Finding one of these rare pieces can be a treasure hunt for pottery enthusiasts, and if you come across one, it’s a must-have for any serious collector.
More Than Just Egg Holders: The Quirky Shaving Mug
Portmeirion’s creativity didn’t stop at egg holders. Another notable piece is the grotesque dolphin-shaped shaving mug, adorned with rose hips and flowers. This whimsical design is a true conversation starter and a piece that divides opinions—you’ll either love it or find it utterly peculiar.
For those who appreciate the quirky and unusual, this dolphin shaving mug is a rare gem that reflects Portmeirion’s ability to blend function with artistic expression. It’s a testament to the brand’s versatility, appealing to both traditionalists and those with a taste for the eccentric.
Portmeirion’s Botanic Garden Series
While the egg holders and shaving mugs are charming, Portmeirion’s Botanic Garden series remains one of the brand’s most beloved collections. Featuring beautifully illustrated botanical motifs, this series has become a staple for collectors and has stood the test of time with its enduring appeal.
Portmeirion’s Botanic Garden pieces, like many of their other designs, are highly collectible. Each item in the series is a celebration of nature’s beauty, with intricate details that bring the patterns to life. For collectors, building a Botanic Garden collection is a journey filled with both aesthetic pleasure and the thrill of the hunt.
Conclusion: The Timeless Appeal of Portmeirion Pottery
Portmeirion pottery continues to enchant collectors with its timeless designs and impeccable craftsmanship. Whether you’re drawn to the nostalgic charm of the Kirkham egg holders, the rarity of the white duck egg holder, or the unique appeal of the grotesque dolphin shaving mug, there’s something in Portmeirion’s history for every enthusiast.
If you ever come across a piece of vintage Portmeirion, whether at an auction or tucked away in a quaint antique shop, don’t hesitate to add it to your collection. These pieces are more than just pottery—they’re a piece of history, a work of art, and a testament to the enduring allure of quality craftsmanship.
