Ellen and Steve (aka Hedgepig Antiques & Collectables) are very pleased to have opened a new bigger unit (46E) in the Arcade.
Steve’s particular interest is Asian and Oriental items including artworks, Nanking, Cargo, Teksing, pottery, ceramics, cloisonne and curios. You will find a large collection of such items in the unit.
Ellen’s interests lay closer to home. Her Great, Great Grandfather, Stephen Knapper and her Great, Great Uncle, Jabey Blackhurst owned a pottery in Staffordshire in the 1860s – 1880s. As such, Ellen has an interest in the development of the ceramic industry in The Potteries and is currently researching a book on the subject.
Knapper and Blackhurst Asiatic Pheasants c.1880
Knapper & Blackhurst were earthenware manufacturers at the Boston Works, Sandyford, Tunstall (from 1867-1871) then Jabez Blackhurst continued alone at Boston Works until 1883, when Knapper and Blackhurst became partners again at Newport Lane, Dale Hall, Burslem. (from 1883-1888)
The ‘Holy Grail’ for Ellen would be a piece of Knapper and Blackhurst pottery for which she has been searching for some time. To date, to no avail!