This display introduces New Zealand architect Keith Murray’s ceramic designs. In the mid 1930’s Murray was commissioned by Josiah Wedgwood and Sons to produce a series of decorative wares. The inspiration for the works, especially earthenware vases and bowls, seemed to stem from his architectural experience.
The austere and elegant pieces made in the early years of the Christian era and Korean pottery are other inspirations. Murray combined the beautiful shapes of these early wares with high technical precision, probably inspired by his admiration for the Bauhaus. He made much use of engine-turned decoration, reviving a technique on which the original Josiah Wedgwood greatly relied.
The Fisher Gallery acknowledges the assistance of Gary Langsford with this exhibition.