Fire Lily - Poole

Name: Poole
 
Type: Pair of Speckled Stoneware Bowls
 
Year: 1960s–1970s
 
Set: Yes ( 2x Ceramic Bowls)
 
Mark: Poole - Wanjoy by Poole, Bulawayo
 
History: This pair of stoneware bowls features the branding Wanjoy by Poole, a mark tied to regional production or distribution in Bulawayo, Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe). These items are particularly interesting for their post-colonial manufacturing provenance, blending British ceramic tradition (via Poole Pottery's influence) with Southern African retail or local ware production.
 
 
The speckled glaze and modernist floral motif – nicknamed “Fire Lily” for the flamboyant orange-red petals – reflect mid-century stylings, in line with the 1960s–70s era. The simplistic rounded bowl form with low foot ring is practical and typical of casual domestic wares of the time. The stylized botanical motif recalls local flora and suggests a regional design appeal.
 
 
There is increasing interest among collectors in ceramics with ties to now-defunct African colonial or transitional manufacturers. While Wanjoy remains a lesser-documented brand, its association with Poole adds appeal and traceability to British design lineages. This makes them desirable for collectors of British mid-century and African colonial-period wares.
 
Flaws: None