Russel Wright Associates

American, est. 1935

Pitcher, 1939–1957

earthenware

26.4 x 20.4 x 16.5 cm

Collection of the Winnipeg Art Gallery; Acquired with funds from the Estate of Mr. and Mrs. Bernard Naylor, funds administered by The Winnipeg Foundation

2009-11

Categories:

Ceramic, Decorative Arts Ceramic

The American Modern design was an early venture for Russel Wright Associates. Designed in 1937 and launched in 1939, it is said to be the best-selling dinnerware ever manufactured and was the greatest success of Russel Wright’s (1904–1976) career. The line, produced until 1957, was later broadened by complementary glassware, table linens, and stainless steel flatware. The WAG’s collection of American Modern features pieces in seafoam blue, granite grey, coral, and chartreuse curry, some of the many glaze hues produced. Its muted, earthy colour selection (intended to be mixed and matched), combined with soft, irregular shapes, heralded a change in dinnerware aesthetics. Deliberately informal, American Modern was designed for the casual American lifestyle.