On 14th January 2025, collectors, enthusiasts, and lovers of fine pottery descended upon the vibrant Kempton Park Antique Market to explore its renowned treasure trove of antique ceramics.
Sunbury Antiques Market at Kempton Park Racecourse is the largest and longest running twice-monthly market in England and one of Europe's premier antiques markets. Kempton Park boasts an impressive array of stalls filled with historic artefacts, vintage curiosities, and stunning ceramics. This day was no exception, with a dazzling array of rare finds waiting to be uncovered by eagle-eyed attendees.
In this video, we take you on an immersive journey through the bustling market, with a special focus on antique backstamps from iconic English pottery makers. As part of this ceramics treasure hunt, we turn over plates, teacups, and other unique items to reveal their maker's marks, offering a window into the rich history of British pottery. From the delicate translucency of bone china to the robust charm of earthenware, this experience highlights the craftsmanship that defined England's ceramic industry.
This is a list of backstamps recognised: Masons Patent Ironstone, Royal Doulton, Denby Greenwheat, Royal Albert Nosegay, S Bridgwood & Sons Longton, Paragon China Longton, JH Cope & Co Longton, Colclough China Longton, John Tams & Son Longton, Royal Crown Derby, Royal Worcester, Copeland Spode, Stoke, Coalport Shropshire, Mintons Stoke, Booths Tunstall, Sevres France, John Aynsley Longton, Jackson & Gosling Longton, W Ridgway & Son Hanley, Wedgwood Etruria.
If you recognise others, please add them in the comments below!
0:00 Intro Arrival
1:30 Outdoor Stalls
12:00 Inside Festival Enclosure
18:40 To Right of Grandstand
21:29 Inside Main Grandstand
25:41 Stalls in front of Grandstand
29:49 Returning
30:46 Outro
Exploring Kempton Park's Ceramic Treasures
The day begins with sweeping views of the market, capturing the lively atmosphere of rows upon rows of stalls. Against this backdrop, we delve into a variety of ceramics ranging from 18th-century masterpieces to charming mid-century designs. Each piece tells its own story, and our running commentary provides insights into the history and significance of the items we discover.
As we wander through the aisles, we focus on showcasing rare and desirable ceramics. Whether it's the intricate patterns of Royal Crown Derby, the refined elegance of Wedgwood, or the rustic beauty of Staffordshire figures, the market offers something for everyone.
A Closer Look at Backstamps
Throughout the video, the spotlight is on the backstamps-those small but crucial markings that reveal the maker and, often, the age of a piece. We turn over an incredible 30 antique ceramics to uncover their marks, examining designs that span centuries of English pottery production. Highlights include:
Engaging with Stall Holders
Along the way, we also engage with several friendly vendors who generously share their expertise. These brief interactions provide additional context and stories behind the ceramics on display, deepening our understanding of their importance.
Final Thoughts
This video is a must-watch for anyone passionate about English ceramics or antique hunting. With its focus on backstamps and the stories they reveal, it's both an educational and entertaining look at the treasures waiting to be discovered at Kempton Park Antique Market. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting out, this adventure will inspire your own hunt for ceramic gems.
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