Historical information

Established by George Guthrie in 1857 (about 5km north of its current site) and then again seven years later in 1864 after it initially closed, Bendigo Pottery remains one of the most influential and longest running Pottery’s in Australia.
Over the years the Pottery has contributed to the growth and development of the district through both its products including building products, table ware and decorative and commemorative war as well as artistically, being responsible for training and supporting many potters locally. The City of Greater Bendigo has had a long history of partnering with Bendigo Pottery and the Civic Collection holds a number of important items within its collection.
This Sir Edmund Barton 'reform' flask was one of a limited edition character bottles produced by the Pottery to commemorate his contribution to Australian politics. Edmund Barton became Australia’s first Prime Minister on New Year’s Day 1901, at a huge public ceremony in Centennial Park in Sydney.
Reform flasks were English salt-glazed stoneware flasks produced in the early 19th century shaped into the form of figures connected with the Reform Bill of 1832. Much was made of puns like ‘the spirit of reform’ at the time.
Artist John Frith has taken the reform flask form as inspiration for a series of political ceramics of some Australian Prime Ministers. The series includes Edmund Barton, Alfred Deakin and Chris Watson.

Physical description

Glazed ceramic flask in the shape of Sir Edmund Barton. Square shaped with most of the detail on the front facing side other than head which is more detailed. Cork still in place in top of head.

Inscriptions & markings

On reverse of flask;
Sir Edmund / Barton / Prime Minister / of Australia / 1901 to 1908
Bendigo Pottery / LMTED / Edition Series / 110/1200 /Australia
Signed lower centre; 'Frith'