Historical information

J & G Meakin was an English pottery manufacturing company founded in 1851 and based in Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire.
In the 19th century, J & G Meakin was known for the vast quantities of cheap ironstone china it produced for the domestic English market and export to Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the United States.
From around 1970, designs included Liberty, Sterling, Trend, Classic, and Heirloom. Some of these were influenced by earlier designs. The newer wares can be distinguished by back stamp markings such as 'permanent colours', 'everlasting colour', or 'dishwasher proof'.
J & G Meakin had close family and corporate affiliations to the potteries Johnson Brothers, and Alfred Meakin Ltd, which explains why many patterns are similar, if not almost the same.
There was a takeover by J. & G. Meakin in 1968 of Midwinter Pottery.
The firm was then taken over by the Wedgwood Group in 1970. In 2000 production under the Meakin name ceased and their long-established works, Eagle Pottery, was then used for the production of Johnson Bros pottery. Eagle Pottery closed in 2004 when production was transferred abroad; the works were demolished in 2005.

Significance

Item is significant as it is believed to be an early example of the SOL trademark made between 1913-1925.

Physical description

Ironstone wash jug and bowl set, white, often referred to as a ewer and bowl. Both jug and bowl have matching raised embossing of panels with floral motifs within them.

Inscriptions & markings

Both items have marks "Ironstone China Reqd SOL 39/4/3 STG Meakin England"
Trademark of J & G Meakin with sun emblem .