An almost perfect conditioned version of an Arthur J Wilkinson manufactured and design of Clarice Cliff Art deco “Celtic rose” patterned 2 tier cake stand. This piece is so pretty and elegant famously designed by Claric Cliff produced between 1920-1939 during the Art deco period as per the back stamp underside. Apart from minor surface scratches around the middle where the cake stand fits together this cake stand is perfect and almost new in condition.

Arthur J Wilkinson (Ltd) was a manufacturer of earthenware and ironstone at Royal Staffordshire pottery Burslem (1885-1964) previously at central works pottery) .

In 1881 teh old central works in burslem passed into the hands of Wilkinson & Hulme and in 1885 Hulme retired leaving the business to be continued by Wilkinson.

Originally producing earthenware for the market Wilkinson later went onto concentrating on white granite ware for the US market. Wilkinson also introduced gold lustre ware on granite ware.

1891- A J Wilkinson passed away in an accident and his brother in law Arthur Shorter was asked to manage the A J Wilkinson pottery in Burslem.

The name of A J Wilkinson was retained even though there was no longer any association with the Wilkinson family.

1896- The company took over Royal Staffordshire pottery which saw the departure from the old central works and soon after the incorporation of the businesses. Notably any marks after 1896 have Ltd added to the name.

1898- Arthur shorter’ eldest son Colley joined the company followed by his youngest son Guy shorter in 1905.

1916- Both brothers were made directors of Wilkinsons and notably the now famous Clarice cliff began working at wilkinsons. It was here that Clarice cliff went onto become the designer of the famous “bizarre ware” and in 1928 the handpainted “bizarre ware” was launched.

1920-by this time expansion of the business had developed greatly resulting in Wilkinson taking over a neighbouring pottery which became known as the Newport pottery co.

1939- WW11 saw to the creative output of the factory cease with the majority of the workforce drafted into the armed forces

1940- Clarice cliff married Colley shorter after the death of his first wife

The wartime restrictions on decorated pottery continued into the 1950’s & the factory was never to produce pottery in the style or quantity of the pre-war period although pottery bearing Clarice cliffs name continued production until 1964.

1964-Clarice Cliff-shorter disposed of the family shared in wilkinsons & newport pottery to the neighbouring Midwinter co. After the death of her husband Colley Shorter.

The history of the cake stand dates back to the 16th century in Europe when cakes became a symbol of celebration and status. They became more popular during the late Victorian era when afternoon tea became fashionable.

Cake stands were originally round and made of wood but they evolved over time to include other materials like glass, metal and porcelain. They became larger and more ornate as cake baking and presentation improved. In 1930’s they began to take on more polygon shapes like squares, hexagons and octagons.

Cake stands have 2 types 1 being used for the display of a finished cake, cakes and other displayed items like fruits, condiments or silverware. Usually to display a focal point of the table, but can also be used for extra space. The other type of cake stands is 1 used in order to decorate a cake so the cake decorator turns the stand whilst piping icing onto the cake.

Regardless of the origins this cake stand is a thing of beauty and the pattern is actually quite rare even though designed by the famous Clarice cliff there is not much of this pattern available and certainly even less to view online.

This piece would make an exceptional addition to a collector and a tea enthusiast also. Not just used to elevate cakes a lovely thought is that this piece would elevate the afternoon tea table in itself.

Any questions please don’t hesitate to contact me and do have a look at the other listings I have available.

Please note photos are part of the description so zoom in and look closely in order to see the best view of its condition.