Moorcroft

Moorcroft, initially started as James Macintyre & Co., is a pottery manufacturer co-founded by William Moorcroft and James McIntyre. The studio was originally established in 1897 by William Moorcroft who designed and personalised each piece with his initials. However, the company underwent a split in 1912 and Moorcroft individually established his factory at Sandbach Road. Most of the sales came from Liberty, a famous London store, and it continued to hold Moorcroft until 1962. Moorcroft was awarded with a gold medal at the St. Louis International Exhibition in 1904, which was followed by many other medals and recommendations. Finally, Moorcroft was appointed as Potter to HM The Queen in 1928.

Moorcroft is controlled by the Edward Family since 1993. Each year, the auctioneers Christies hold a dedicated Moorcroft sale. In 2001, there was a major sale of Moorcroft pieces in Sothebyís New York. The Victoria & Albert museum, amongst many other national museums, has displayed significant pieces of Moorcroft pottery. In August 1998, Moorcroft pottery started incorporating colours with enamels. They were sold under a separate label, Moorcroft Enamels, which closed down in March 2006.

The 2007 catalogue of Moorcroft has a wide collection of products including giftware ranges, lamps, miniature sets, framed plaques and limited editions of pottery. Moorcroft has also launched its new shadow collection with elegant black pots and other giftware. Designers such as Emma Bosson, Sian Leeper, Nicola Slaney, Philip Gibson, Rachel Bishop and Kerry Goodwin give their personal touch to each of these pieces, making them look elegant and stylish.