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Wedgewood vase, 1786, (1950). Pegasus Vase Creator: Shirley Markham
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Wedgewood vase, 1786, (1950). Pegasus Vase Creator: Shirley Markham
Wedgewood vase, 1786, (1950). The Pegasus Vase, made of jasper ware with applied white reliefs, and Pegasus or winged-horse finial on the lid. Produced by the Wedgwood factory. This example in the British Museum in London. Shirley Markham (1931-1999) studied Graphic Design and Illustration at Central School of Art in London from 1950-1952. The writer, artist, poet, and illustrator Mervyn Peake (1911-1968) was one of her tutors, and her style of drawing was also influenced by other British illustrators such as Edward Ardizzone, Quentin Blake and Edward Bawden. Markham spent time in the Dolomite Mountains in Italy, and also visited Rome, sketching classical buildings. After graduating from Central, she worked as a graphic designer, producing book illustrations, cartoons for comics, menus and programmes. She gave up her promising career however when she got married in 1957. Middle-class women at that time were expected to devote their energies to bringing up children and running the home, and despite her obvious talent, she lacked the confidence to return to illustration. Her portfolio remained in the family attic for many years, but now her work is published here for the first time
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Media ID 18265953
© Shirley Markham Collection / Heritage-Images
1950s British Museum Fifties Jasper Ware Josiah Josiah Wedgwood Markham Shirley Shirley Jane Shirley Jane Markham Shirley Markham Shirley Waite Vase Waite Wash Wedgwood Greek Mythology
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This print showcases the exquisite Wedgewood vase, dating back to 1786 but reimagined in 1950 by the talented artist Shirley Markham. The Pegasus Vase, crafted from jasper ware adorned with delicate white reliefs, is a true testament to the craftsmanship of the renowned Wedgwood factory. Standing proudly atop its lid is a magnificent finial depicting Pegasus, the mythical winged-horse. Housed within the esteemed British Museum in London, this particular example of Markham's work embodies her unique style and artistic prowess. As a student at Central School of Art in London during the early 1950s, she was fortunate enough to be mentored by Mervyn Peake and draw inspiration from esteemed British illustrators like Edward Ardizzone, Quentin Blake, and Edward Bawden. Markham's creative journey took her beyond classrooms and studios as she ventured into Italy's Dolomite Mountains and Rome itself. These experiences allowed her to sketch classical buildings that would later influence her illustrations. Despite displaying immense talent as a writer, artist, poet, and illustrator throughout her career - which included book illustrations for various genres - Markham made an unexpected decision after marrying in 1957. She chose to prioritize traditional gender roles prevalent at that time instead of pursuing further success in illustration. For years following this choice, Markham's remarkable portfolio remained tucked away in an attic until now when it is finally being unveiled for public appreciation for the first time ever.
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