18th Century wine bottle with Wedgwood inscription expected to command high price

The world of antiques and collectibles never ceases to amaze and enthrall enthusiasts, especially when they unveil tangible pieces of history. Among such captivating finds is a wine bottle dating back to 1776, expected to be the highlight at an upcoming Hansons auction. This isn't just any wine bottle – it bears a personal inscription dedicated to the prominent pottery pioneer, Thomas Wedgwood. The artifact's expected value? A sumptuous £6,000 to £8,000, reflecting not just its age, but also its invaluable link to one of the most influential figures in English pottery.

The bottle's collar gracefully states, "Thomas Wedgwood of the Big House, Burslem, Staffordshire. Born 1703. Died 1776." Such a personal inscription provides a direct bridge to the late 18th century and the thriving era of the Staffordshire Potteries. The message is not only an acknowledgment of Thomas's life span but also a testament to his substantial influence and prominence in the pottery realm.

Charles Hanson, the founder of Hansons Auctioneers, based in the scenic Derbyshire, expressed his fervent hope that this unique relic will be acquired by a museum. This aspiration is driven by the bottle's undoubted historical significance. "An entrepreneurial spirit ran in the Wedgwood family's veins, particularly Thomas's. He was a giant in terms of his impact in the early days of Staffordshire Potteries," Hanson commented.

Thomas Wedgwood's family legacy is globally celebrated. Wedgwood pottery, founded in 1759, remains a gold standard in the world of fine English pottery. Hanson provided insights into the family's innovations, explaining, "Every new Wedgwood invention – green glaze, creamware, black basalt, and jasperware – was quickly copied. Having enhanced production, Wedgwood sought efficiencies in sales and distribution. Showrooms in London showcased tableware, always in tune with current fashions."

The Wedgwood brand's prominence and innovation were further recognized in 1995 when it was granted a Royal Warrant by Queen Elizabeth II. Over the years, various pieces bearing the esteemed Wedgwood name have been auctioned, with prices fluctuating between $US40 to an astounding US$53,732. The record auction price for a Wedgwood artifact is held by the Sydney Cove Medallion, which fetched a staggering US$53,732 at Lyon & Turnbull Edinburgh in 2022.

The upcoming Hansons' auction, scheduled to take place on 5-6 October in Derbyshire, promises to be a riveting event for collectors and historians alike. With the 1776 wine bottle taking center stage, attendees and bidders will witness a piece of history, not merely in terms of years but in the rich tapestry of English pottery and the indelible mark left by the Wedgwood family.