Vintage 50cm Govancroft Stoneware Bottle in Wicker Basket - M. Vaughan & Co. Ltd, Durban
This rare and impressive stoneware bottle stands at 50cm tall, marked "M. Vaughan & Co. Ltd, Durban," with an impressed "4," likely indicating 15 liters or 4 gallons capacity. The bottle was made by Govancroft Pottery, Glasgow, known for its utilitarian stoneware production.
This bottle is a fantastic piece of industrial and colonial history, showcasing Govancroft's utilitarian craftsmanship combined with its wide export market to places like South Africa.
Condition: The bottle itself is in good condition with no chips or cracks. The wicker basket, which was used to protect the bottle during transport, shows visible wear and some damage.
Dimensions:
Bottle Height: 50cm
15L
Govancroft Pottery was founded by James Buchanan in 1911, in the East End of Glasgow, and became well known for its high-quality utilitarian stoneware. Initially, the pottery focused on Bristol-glazed stoneware, producing items such as jam jars, whisky flagons, and kitchen wares. By the 1950s, the company had expanded its range to include pitchers, jugs, and even tourist wares, including the popular Highland Ware based on thistles.
Despite its success, a fire in 1955 temporarily halted production, and increasing competition in the 1960s led to financial difficulties. Sadly, Govancroft Pottery closed its doors in 1976. However, its products, especially stoneware pieces like this bottle, remain sought-after collectibles today.
History:
Govancroft Pottery was a major producer of utilitarian stoneware from its establishment in 1911 until 1946, when it began to diversify its product lines. Before this, the pottery dominated the jam jar market and produced a range of essential household items such as whisky flagons, hot water bottles, and storage jars.
After 1946, they extended their production to include pitchers, jugs, and dinnerware, using granular colours and matt glazes. By the 1950s, they were producing more decorative items such as Highland Ware, aimed at the tourist market. Their distinctive opalescent glazed and spatter ware jugs became particularly popular.
The pottery faced increased competition during the 1960s, introducing garden ornaments and painted dinner sets to its range. However, despite these efforts, the company closed in 1976.
M. Vaughan & Co. Ltd, Durban: (Estimated - 1957)
This company was likely involved in the production, storage, or distribution of liquid goods in South Africa, particularly in Durban. While not much detailed information may be readily available about this specific company, similar bottles from South African companies were used extensively during the early 20th century for transporting alcoholic beverages, like whiskey or gin. The bottle itself, given its thick stoneware construction, would have been ideal for preserving and storing liquid due to its durability and non-reactive nature.
Wicker Basket:
The wicker basket, though showing signs of age and wear, would have been an essential part of protecting the bottle during transport. These baskets were typically handmade and crafted tightly around the bottle to provide a cushion and barrier from damage. The wear and tear visible on the basket indicate that it has seen considerable use, adding to the antique charm of the piece.
