North Devon GTW
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A green, yellow or brown lead glazed coarse earthenware body with a pink or reddish to orange coloured paste with a grey core resulting from reduced oxygen during firing. The coarse, angular gravel added to the North Devon gravel-tempered paste ranges up to 12 mm in diameter giving an obvious rough texture to the ware when it protrudes on the surface.
North Devon gravel-tempered ware was produced in potteries around Barnstable and Bideford from the early 17th century onwards. Although the North Devon industry had passed its heyday by the mid 19th century, production is known to have continued at some sites until the beginning of the 20th century.
In addition to local markets, North Devon gravel-tempered ware was widely traded, making it the most common utilitarian and dining ware in many areas along the English and Welsh coasts. A significant quantity was also exported to Ireland and the American colonies in the 17th and 18th centuries.
Material: ceramic
Period: Post Medieval
Find spot: Hampstead Road, Brislington, Bristol. ST 612710
Exhibit contributed by Ken Taylor
Text written by Dawn Witherspoon, 2011
Photographer: Ken Taylor
Acquisition number: 111105a3