The strength of the decorative arts collection lies in its holdings of 18th and 19th English ceramics. One of the finest collections in Canada, these works tell the story of the development of British ceramicists such as William de Morgan and potteries such as Minton and the discovery of the porcelain formula, as well as the influence of Chinese patterns on European production. The decorative arts holdings also include a strong survey of late 19th century to early 20th century glass, with particular representation of Art Nouveau and Art Deco designs from the recognized glass factories of Gallé, Tiffany, Steuben, and Lalique. The Silver collection is one of the best in the country, with a concentration on British and Canadian domestic and ecclesiastical pieces of immense importance by such artisans as Robert Cruickshank, Digby Scott and Benjamin Smith, and Paul Storr.
Works in the Collection
Sauce boat on stand
Digby Scott and Benjamin Smith for Rundell, Bridge & Rundell, 1806 DetailsSoup spoon
Paul Lambert, c. 1740–1749 DetailsPlate
Caughley Works, c. 1785–c. 1790 DetailsPlate
Josiah Wedgwood, c. 1820 DetailsTrumpet-shaped vase
Royal Crown Derby, c. 1918 DetailsPap boat
Pierre Lespérance, c. 1850–1860 DetailsSweetmeat glass
Unidentified maker, c. 18th–19th century DetailsPresentation cup
Peter Bohle for George Savage & Son, c. 1849 DetailsSaucer
Miles Mason, c. 1805 DetailsPlate
Swansea, c. 1814–c. 1822 DetailsCoffee cup, saucer
Caughley Works, c. 1785–c. 1795 DetailsChristening bowl
Guild of Handicraft, 1901 DetailsMote spoon
Unidentified maker, c. 1745 DetailsCandlestick
Unidentified maker, c. 1870–c. 1910 DetailsVinaigrette
Nathaniel Mills, 1829 DetailsFor more information, visit wag.ca/stories.