*British, WW1, Doulton Lambeth Stoneware Vase, Signed ES (Eliza Simmance), Dated April 1915, 43cm*
A tall and elegant Doulton Lambeth stoneware vase, measuring approx. 43cm in height with an 8cm base diameter. The piece is richly decorated with scrolling foliate motifs in green, blue, and brown, outlined in slip-trailed beadwork and raised against a finely incised ground. The neck and shoulders are finished in a mottled ochre glaze, rising to a slender flared lip, creating a striking contrast to the decorative body.
The underside bears the impressed Doulton Lambeth factory mark with “ENGLAND” (denoting export production after 1891), the impressed shape/model number 6874, the impressed assistant’s tally “ppp”, and the incised date 4/15 for April 1915. Most importantly, the base carries the conjoined “E S” monogram of Eliza Simmance, one of the leading designers at Doulton Lambeth, active from 1873 until 1928.
Historical Note:
The Doulton factory at Lambeth, London, became synonymous with artistic stoneware in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Known for innovation and quality, the Lambeth works employed a talented pool of designers and decorators, many of whom — unusually for the time — were women. These artists, including Hannah and Florence Barlow, Florence Roberts, and Eliza Simmance, were not only allowed but encouraged to sign their work, which contributed to Doulton’s reputation for originality and artistry.
By 1915, the date of this vase, Britain was deep in the First World War, and many industries had shifted to war production. At Lambeth, the continuation of art pottery was sustained largely by its women decorators, as many male staff were drawn into war service. Eliza Simmance, who had joined Doulton in 1873, was by then a senior figure and one of the most accomplished designers of her generation. Her work demonstrates the transition from late Victorian design to the flowing, stylised forms of Art Nouveau, here represented in the richly incised foliage and beaded slip-trailed motifs. This piece therefore reflects not only Doulton’s artistry but also the resilience and contribution of women artists in sustaining Britain’s cultural output during wartime.
*Condition*
The vase remains in excellent overall condition, retaining a bright glaze and crisp slip-trailed detail. The decoration is sharp, and the colours remain vibrant. A tiny chip to the lip rim is noted on close inspection. Otherwise free from cracks, restoration, or significant wear. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
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