Chunky Rockingham Glaze Mudlarked Sherd Cufflinks

Historical Information

Type: Bennington-style Rockingham glaze

Fabric: Earthenware

Date: Mid-late 19th Century

Find Location: Essex, UK

Extra information:

Rockingham glaze is a rich, mottled brown finish developed in the early 19th century and widely associated with pottery produced at Bennington Pottery in the United States. The glaze, coloured with iron, produces characteristic streaked or "tortoiseshell" effects as it runs during firing, creating a glossy surface with dark and lighter brown variations. Inspired by English wares linked to the Rockingham Works, this style became popular on both sides of the Atlantic for affordable domestic items such as teapots, jugs, and tableware. British examples were also widely produced and exported. The durable earthenware body combined with this distinctive glaze made such ceramics both practical and decorative, reflecting Victorian tastes for rich, naturalistic finishes in everyday objects.