Wedgwood Jasperware is one of the most ubiquitous and recognisable ceramic wares. It is celebrated and sought-after by collectors the world over.
Rare pieces, in particular, can be quite valuable – so, what is your Wedgwood Jasperware worth?
Sold at John Moran Auctioneers in California, this pair of Pegasus vases sold for $17,250, in March 2009. (Credit: invaluable.com)
The Origins of Jasperware
Wedgwood’s Jasperware range came into being in the 1770s and is still produced to this day. A type of unglazed stoneware, it’s named for the similarity of its finish to the mineral jasper.
It incorporates Greek and Roman-inspired classical design motifs and has been produced in a range of different colours – from the iconic pale blue, to hues of green, yellow, brown, lilac, black, crimson and more.
This light blue two-handled urn and cover, circa 1900, sold for a hammer price of £1,000 in our March 2023 Fine Art auction.
So, what’s my Wedgwood Jasperware worth?
Several factors govern the value of a Jasperware piece. For a start, there’s rarity to consider: this can relate both to the piece itself, as well as the colour used.
Examples that were less-commonly produced at the time have a lower chance of having survived to the present day – therefore, even a less-attractive piece, if uncommon enough, will undoubtedly command a higher price.
Sold in our March 2022 Fine Art auction was this full set of Flaxman designed blue & white Jasperware chess pieces. They achieved a hammer price of £1,700.
Conversely, even a common shape can be valuable, should it sport a rare colour. The Wedgwood Jasperware range has been produced in around 30 different colours, shades and combinations, with the rarest being crimson dip – produced intermittently between the late 1800s and the 1920s, it was discontinued, due to colour bleeding.
Yellow and lilac are also among the less-common colours, as well as Tri-colour examples. Blues, sage green and black are much more numerous, but the latter remains sought-after, thanks to better displayability in a modern setting.
A significant piece, this trial first edition Portland vase, The Lord Dacre Copy, sold at Bonhams in London, in March 2006. It realised a price of £19,200 inclusive of premium. (Credit: bonhams.com)
Size, too, is worth considering: Large, elaborate pieces such as vases will invariably be higher in value, along with plaques and other decorative items. On the other hand, small collectable pieces, like matchboxes and medallions, are also popular.
This Tri-colour Britannia Vase featured in our November 2021 Fine Art auction. The large vase and cover sold for a hammer price of £4,100.
Given that Wedgwood Jasperware has been produced since the 18th Century, there’s every reason for age to be a factor, but it’s not quite so straightforward, considering the most sought-after pieces date from the late 19th and early 20th Centuries.
Among pieces of the same type, design, size and colour, however, the older example will invariably carry the higher value. For more information on determining a piece’s age, check out our guide to Wedgwood pottery markings here.
Dated 1968, this large 1316 shape lidded vase achieved a hammer price of £1,900 in our November 2023 Fine Art auction.
Finally, it should come as no surprise that Wedgwood Jasperware worth is also determined by it’s condition. If it’s a particularly rare piece, and the damage not too drastic, it may retain a respectable price – whereas, a less-desirable piece, or damage of a more catastrophic nature, will absolutely diminish value.
Sold at Christie’s in London, in September 2011, this pair of large green Jasperware vases & covers achieved a stunning price of £55,250!
Is Your Wedgwood Jasperware Worth a Lot?
Our team of experts can value your Wedgwood Jasperware items and assist you in consigning them to auction. We hold free valuation days every Tuesday at our Silverdale saleroom. To attend, book an appointment using our online booking form here.
Alternatively, you can email us at enquiries@potteriesauctions.com or call 01782 638100. Valuations can also be provided via WhatsApp – simply send some clear images of your items via the app to 07864 667940.