A special anniversary exhibition celebrating 150 years since the inauguration of the world famous Martin Brothers pottery and a century on from the death of Robert Wallace Martin aims to put their work firmly back in the spotlight at Cotswolds auctioneers, Kinghams.
The auction house is recognised as having good connections to all things Martin Brothers, with its founder, George Kingham, dealing in the sought-after wares for over thirty years. Kinghams auctioneers have been marketing all manner of Martin Brothers including the famous bird jars in their auctions from the outset. In 2021, they held their record breaking Richard Dennis – Promoting British Ceramics auction which included a number of items of Martin Brothers. In their October 2022 Fine Art auction Kinghams sold a triple birds in harmony group for a record £73,800.
The last major exhibition of the brother’s wares was back in the 1970s so it was decided the time was right to inspire existing and cultivate a new generation of enthusiasts. It will be the first major exhibition of its type in over forty-five years.
Both the exhibition and auction are being held at Kinghams Moreton in Marsh auction centre and printed and online catalogues will be available for both. The exhibition runs from March 27 to April 1 and there will be a talk titled The Martin Brothers, A Centenary Celebration by leading authority Christopher Jordan on March 27.
Exhibits on loan from collectors across the globe will include over one hundred rare and priceless items, many which have never been seen in public before – from unique bird jars and vases to grotesques and architectural wares. The auction of approximately 40-50 objects comprises select items, including at least five bird jars, vases and grotesques for sale and will take place on May 5.
