Antique G Bros Stoke-on-Trent Staffordshire 5-Piece Wash Basin Set

This antique 5-piece wash basin set by G Bros (Goulding Brothers) of Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, England, offers a glimpse into the daily life and refined taste of the Victorian and Edwardian eras. Each piece is adorned with delicate, hand-painted floral motifs in warm shades of red, yellow, and green against a soft cream background, with a light green glaze and subtle gold accents on the rims. Intricate embossed detailing around the edges adds a touch of elegance, capturing the stylistic preferences of late 19th to early 20th-century English ceramic art.

Historical Context:

During the Victorian and Edwardian periods, indoor plumbing was still a luxury, and portable wash basin sets were essential in households. These sets, typically kept in bedrooms, allowed for personal hygiene without the need for a plumbed bathroom. The large pitcher was filled with water for washing, while the basin provided a vessel for bathing or face-washing. The chamber pot served as a discreet alternative to a bathroom, particularly during the night, stored under a cabinet or within a bedchamber. The smaller accessories, such as the lidded soap dish and decorative vase, completed the set, showcasing both functionality and aesthetic appeal. A beautifully adorned wash basin set like this one would have been a prized possession, reflecting the home’s attention to elegance and comfort.

Markings:

The base of each piece is stamped with the G Bros trade mark, authenticating its origin in Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire—a region historically known as “The Potteries” for its ceramic production. This mark connects the set to the celebrated Staffordshire pottery tradition, known worldwide for its quality and artistry.

Components and Dimensions:

• Wash Basin: 16 inches in diameter
• Pitcher: 12 inches tall
• Chamber Pot: 9.5 inches in diameter, with a single side handle
• Vase: 6 inches tall
• Soap Dish with Lid: 5.75 inches in diameter

Condition:

This set, over a century old, exhibits age-appropriate wear, which adds to its historical appeal.

• Chamber Pot: Features an old, tight crack and minor crazing, indicative of its age.
• Gold Rims: Show wear, a common characteristic of antique ceramics.
• Soap Dish with Lid: Has a previous repair and a chip to the lid, reflecting its years of use.
• Pitcher: Displays a delicate hairline crack, enhancing its vintage charm.