200 Years of Denby

Denby's History - 1809 to 2009

These silhouettes tell the story of Denby's rich and varied history. It may surprise you to know that the beautifully designed tableware ranges of today are not the products that Denby became famous for 200 years ago (or even 100 years ago!).

Salt Glaze Bottles

Denby Pottery's history began in 1809 with the establishment of pottery on a seam of exceptionally fine clay. 'Joseph Bourne', as the pottery was known for over a century and half was established by the Bourne family.

At this time, Denby specialised in the manufacture of salt-glazed stoneware bottles produced in a variety of different sizes to hold commodities from medicines and ink to ale and mineral water. Right from the start quality, durability, design and innovation were apparent in all Denby's products.

D-shape Footwarmer

Denby continued to innovate, introducing new products that reflected the needs of the times.

In the early 1900s, with the arrival of the motor car, Denby created the 'motor warmer' to keep travellers warm on long, cold journeys. This was the latest addition to an already extensive range of hot water bottles that were available in a variety of shapes and sizes - this 'D' Shape was the most popular style.

Cottage Blue

As glass became cheaper and the demand for stoneware bottles decreased, Denby diversified their range of kitchenware, introducing items that are more akin to the Denby products of today.

It was during the 1920's that Denby launched the iconic Cottage Blue range which was a real contrast to the traditional brown glazes which had been typically 'Denby' for a century.. The silhouette shown here is of the distinctive coffee filter, one of the many jugs, teapots, pots and dishes available in the range.

Nevva-drip Teapot

Launched with the strap line 'pours perfectly...and never drips', the Nevva-Drip teapot was introduced into the Denby range in 1922.

The shape of this truly iconic teapot is still made to this day and is glazed with the most popular current patterns.

Novelty Items

Denby produced a number of novelty items including a loveable range of animals and characters.

There were two particular favourites, Byngo the dog, with his distinctive dark left ear and Marmaduke the rabbit. Marmaduke was available in seven sizes, starting at a decorative one inch piece, to bunnies large enough to serve as a doorstop and a tail-less cottonwool container.

Greenwheat

This cruet set (including pots for salt, pepper and mustard) was part of the Greenwheat tableware range, designed by Albert Colledge.

Greenwheat was one of Denby's first hand-decorated tableware ranges The simple but intricate design had both universal and long lasting appeal as it was produced until 1977, with each piece being backstamped with Albert's signature.

Tigo Vase

The striking Tigo ware range was designed by Tibor Reich, a freelance designer who worked with Denby in the 1950's.

The range was created from specially 'bought-in' white clay, lines of which were made visible as part of the design, through the use of the sgraffito 'scratching' technique.

Glynbourne Vase (8")

This vase was one of the many Glynbourne vases available in the mid-1960's.

This range of 'studio' pottery was designed by Glyn Colledge, Albert's son and one of Denby's most influential designers. The Glynbourne range included a number of highly decorative hand thrown and hand painted gift ware pieces that served both a decorative and functional use, including jugs, bowls and planters.

Arabesque Coffee Server

The Arabesque range was designed by Gill Pemberton in the early 1960's. The eye-catching design was inspired by a trip to Russia and was initially introduced as a gift ware collection.

Arabesque was one of the patterns that heralded Denby as a leader in oven-to-tableware with beautiful designs that could withstand oven temperatures. A hugely popular tableware range, it was produced until 1984.

Glass

Denby launched a range of glassware in the 1970's. The designs have evolved over the years and the current range of handmade glass reflect the shapes and colours of the tableware ranges.

The silhouette is of the shapely and elegant champagne glass designed for the Truffle, Mist and Oyster ranges.

Craftsman's Mug

The Craftsman's mug was introduced as part of the Sherwood Collection in the early 1980's.

For a limited time only, this iconic mug is available in an extra large one pint version in Imperial Blue, Regency Green and Linen.

China by Denby Salt & Pepper

The first range of China was launched in 2005. The inspiration for this range was a reflection of the trend for more simple, neutral home décor.

China by Denby is very popular with bridal couples and the unique salt and pepper set was designed to reflect the closeness and embrace of a loving couple.

James Martin Divided Dish

Denby have worked very closely with one of Britain's best loved chef's, James Martin, to create the ultimate range of cookware and serveware.

The specially designed range of white porcelain pieces continue Denby's tradition of stylish oven to tableware pieces and innovation, with the easyclean coating that means no more scrubbing or soaking.

Pure Green

Pure Green was launched in the summer of 2008 as Denby's official bicentenary pattern.

The fresh, new range features soft, contemporary shapes and glazes, which includes a stunning new tea set.