Learn about antiques and collectables...
Click on a category below to show all the entries for that category.
Learn about and understand the items, manufacturers, designers and periods as well as the specialist terms used in describing antiques and collectables. Either click one of the letters below to list the items beginning with that letter, or click on a category on the left side of the screen to list the items under that category.
Mabel Lucie Attwell
Mabel Lucie Attwell was a British illustrator and artist who was active in the early 20th century. She was known for her charming and whimsical illustrations, which often featured children and animals. Attwell's work appeared in books, magazines, and on a wide range of consumer goods, including postcards, advertisements, and collectibles. She was born in 1879 and died in 1964. She created designs for the British pottery company Shelley, known for its high-quality, hand-crafted ceramics. Attwell's designs were often used on Shelley's popular figurines and decorative objects, which were produced in the early 20th century. Attwell's charming and whimsical illustrations were a perfect match for Shelley's products, which were known for their delicate, hand-painted designs.
Mackennal, Edgar Bertram
Born in Melbourne in 1862, MacKennal studied with his father, J.S. MacKennal and at the National Gallery School, Melbourne.
He travelled to England in 1882 studying at the Royal Academy School, London and in Paris, spending five years in the latter city and coming under the influence of French Symbolism and Romanticism. He spent the rest of his working life in London, although he did return to Australia from 1889 to 1892, having won the competition for the decoration of Government House in Victoria.
He exhibited at the Royal Academy from 1886. Prior to his return to Australia he had became head of the Art Department of Coalport Potteries in England.
He executed commissions for the relief carvings in the Victorian Houses of Parliament and for the design of coins. He was knighted in 1921 in recognition of his equestrian portrait of King Edward VII.
MacKennal spent much of his later life in England where he died in 1931.
Mackintosh, Charles Rennie
Charles Rennie Mackintosh (1868 - 1928) was an important Scottish architect, water colourist and designer duing the Arts & Crafts period.
Born in Glasgow, and at age 15 he began evening classes at the Glasgow School of Art. It was here he met his future wife Margaret Macdonald, who he married in 1900. Together with his wife, his wife's sister and her husband, they exhibited furniture and posters and became known as the 'Glasgow Four".
Mackintosh originally produced graphic work and repousse metalwork in conventional Art Nouveau style, but from the 1890s developed a distinctive simplified style highly influential on Viennese furniture and architecture.
Magic Lanterns
The magic lantern is an early type of image projector and was one of the first devices that allowed images to be projected onto a surface, It played an important role in the development of modern projection technology.
The earliest known reference to a magic lantern comes from a Dutch scientist named Christiaan Huygens, who described a simple projection device in 1659. The first true magic lantern, however, was developed by a German Jesuit priest named Athanasius Kircher in the 1670s. Kircher's lantern used a concave mirror to reflect light from a candle onto a glass slide that contained an image. The image was then projected onto a wall or screen.
Over the next century, the magic lantern became increasingly popular as a form of entertainment and education. Lantern shows were held in public places like theatres and town squares, and lanterns were used to illustrate lectures and scientific demonstrations. The images on the slides ranged from simple illustrations to highly detailed paintings and photographs.
In the 19th century, the magic lantern was gradually replaced by newer projection technologies, such as the film projector. However, the lantern continued to be used in certain applications, such as religious services and traveling shows. Some of the lantern's technological advancements, such as the use of electric light sources, paved the way for the development of modern projection technology.
Magis S.p.a
Magis S.p.A. is an Italian furniture design and manufacturing company founded in 1976 by Eugenio Perazza. The company is known for its innovative and experimental designs, which often use unconventional materials and production techniques. Magis has collaborated with a number of renowned designers, including Jasper Morrison, Konstantin Grcic, and Ronan & Erwan Bouroullec.
Magis's mid-century furniture designs are characterized by their simple, geometric forms and use of natural materials. Some of the company's most iconic mid-century pieces include the Air Chair by Jasper Morrison, the Tizio desk lamp by Richard Sapper, and the Ribbon Chair by Ronan & Erwan Bouroullec. Over the years, Magis has received numerous accolades for its designs, including multiple Compasso d'Oro awards, which are among the most prestigious design awards in Italy.
Magis's commitment to innovation and quality has made it one of the leading furniture design brands in the world.
Mahal Carpets
Mahal carpets are hand-knotted and originated in the region of Arak in west-central Iran. They are named after the city of Mahallat, which was a major centre of carpet production in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
The history of Mahal carpets dates back to the Safavid dynasty, which ruled Iran from 1501 to 1736. During this time, the art of carpet weaving flourished in Iran, and many of the techniques and designs that are still used in carpet production today were developed.
In the 19th century, the city of Mahallat emerged as a major centre of carpet production. Mahal carpets were known for their high quality and durability, as well as their distinctive designs, which often featured floral motifs and intricate medallions.
Mahal carpets played an important role in the development of the Persian carpet industry. In the early 20th century, however, the production of Mahal carpets began to decline due to competition from other carpet-producing regions and the effects of World War I.
Mahal carpets are still produced in the Arak region of Iran, but they are less common and antique Mahal carpets are highly prized by collectors.
Mahogany
Mahogany is a dense, close grained red-coloured timber from the West Indies and Central America. It was first imported into Europe in the the early 18th century and its use continued through the 19th century. It was popular for furniture making because of its strength, the wide boards available, the distinctive grain on some boards, termed flame mahogany and the rich warm colour of the timber when it was polished.. The "flame" was produced where a limb grew out from the trunk of the tree, and this timber was usually sliced into veneers for feature panels on doors, backs and cornices.
Some terms used to describe mahogany relate to the country from which it originally came, such as "Cuban" mahogany, "Honduras" mahogany etc. However unless the wood has been tested the names assigned are more a selling feature, rather than a true indication of the timber's origin.
Mahood, Marguerite Henriette
Born in Melbourne in 1901, Mahood studied extensively in Melbourne. A painter, ceramic and metalwork artist, cartoonist, illustrator and art historian, she exhibited watercolours and ceramics with the Victorian Artists' Society.
In the late 1940s she ran a screen-printing business, and also contributed series of natural history cartoons to newspapers and magazines. In 1970 she was awarded a PhD for her thesis on nineteenth-century political cartoons. Mahood died in 1989.
Her work is represented in the National Gallery of Australia, the state galleries of New South Wales and Victoria, and in provincial and public collections.
Maintaining Power
A horological term to describe a subsidiary driving force such as a spring or additional weight in a clock, which keeps the movement going while the mainspring is being rewound.
Maiolica
Italian maiolica wares, also known as majolica, are a type of tin-glazed earthenware pottery that originated in Italy during the Renaissance period. Maiolica wares are known for their colourful, highly decorative designs that are painted on a white background.
The name "Maiolica" is the medieval Italian name for the island of Majorca, where this type of pottery was originally thought to have been made. Majolica is a corrupted for of the word Maiolica and was used in the 19th century for a type of earthenware produced in Staffordshire by potteries such as Minton.
Maiolica wares were typically made by applying a tin glaze to earthenware pottery and then firing it in a kiln. The tin glaze creates a white surface that is perfect for painting intricate designs in bright colours. These designs often featured scenes from everyday life, landscapes, animals, or geometric patterns.
In Italy, maiolica wares were produced in many different regions, each with their own distinctive style. Some of the most famous Italian maiolica centres include Deruta, Faenza, and Castelli.
Maison Bagues
Maison Bagues, is a French company specializing in mid-century furniture and lighting, has a history that spans over a century. Established in 1860 by Noel Bagues, the company originally started as a small foundry in Paris, producing bronze objects and decorative hardware.
Under the leadership of Noel Bagues' son, Eugene Bagues, Maison Bagues expanded its product range to include lighting fixtures and began to gain recognition for its exquisite craftsmanship and innovative designs. The company's commitment to quality and attention to detail quickly propelled it to the forefront of the decorative arts scene in France at the beginning of the 20th century. Notable commissions at this time included furnishings and decorations for the oceanliner l’Atlantique, the 1925 Paris Exposition Universelle, the 1934 Salon de la Lumiere and the 1937 Exposition Universelle des Arts et Techniques dans la Vie Moderne.
In the years between the World Wars, grandsons Victor & Robert expanded the business with many highly sophisticated bronze and iron items, including furniture, stairway banisters & metal gates.
During the mid-20th century, Maison Bagues experienced a period of significant growth and success. The company became known for its distinctive style, combining traditional craftsmanship with modern design elements. Maison Bagues embraced the Art Deco movement, incorporating geometric shapes, luxurious materials, and intricate metalwork into their furniture and lighting creations.
One of Maison Bagues' notable contributions to the world of design was the use of rock crystal in their lighting fixtures. The company's skilled artisans would intricately carve and shape rock crystal to create dazzling chandeliers, sconces, and table lamps. This innovative use of materials added a touch of opulence and elegance to their pieces, setting them apart from their contemporaries.
Throughout the mid-century period, Maison Bagues continued to produce exceptional furniture and lighting that appealed to discerning customers. Their designs ranged from classic and elegant to bold and avant-garde, reflecting the ever-changing tastes of the era.
Maison Bagues' reputation extended beyond France, and the company's creations were sought after by international clients, including royalty, aristocrats, and celebrities. In the latter half of the 20th century, Maison Bagues faced economic challenges and changes in consumer preferences, which led to a decline in production. However, the legacy of their mid-century designs continues to captivate collectors and enthusiasts today.
Maison Goyard
Maison Goyard is a French trunk and leather goods maker established in 1792 as Maison Martin in Paris. The company was founded by Pierre-François Martin, who specialized in box-making, trunk-making, and other pieces of luxury luggage for the French aristocracy. Martin's work (particularly his trunks) was extremely sought after, and the company quickly gained a reputation for its high quality and craftsmanship.
In 1845, François Goyard, a 17-year-old apprentice, was hired by Martin. Goyard quickly learned the trade, and when Martin died suddenly in 1852, Goyard took over the company and renamed it Maison Goyard. Under Goyard's leadership, the company continued to grow and expand, and it soon became one of the most respected luxury luggage makers in the world.
In 1853, Goyard introduced its signature print, the Goyardine. The Goyardine is a woven canvas with an interlocking chevron pattern. It is one of the most iconic patterns in the world of luxury goods, and it has become synonymous with the Maison Goyard brand.
The Goyardine was an instant success, and it helped to propel the company to even greater heights. In the years that followed, Goyard continued to innovate and expand its product line. The company began to produce a wider variety of leather goods, including handbags, wallets, and accessories. Goyard also opened new stores around the world, and it became one of the most sought-after luxury brands in the world.
Maison Goyard is still one of the most prestigious luxury luggage makers in the world. The company is known for its high quality, craftsmanship, and iconic Goyardine print. Goyard products are still handmade in Paris, and they are only sold in select stores around the world. As a result, Goyard bags and luggage are highly coveted by collectors and fashion enthusiasts.
Maison Jansen
Maison Jansen was a Paris-based interior decoration office founded in 1880 by Dutch-born Jean-Henri Jansen. Jansen is considered the first truly global design firm, serving clients in Europe, Latin America, North America and the Middle East.
The firm's mid-century furniture designers and makers included Stéphane Boudin, Pierre Paulin, and Christian Liaigre. Boudin was responsible for the interiors of the White House during the Kennedy administration, and provided services to the royal families of Belgium, Iran, and Serbia; Elsie de Wolfe, and Lady Olive Baillie's Leeds Castle in Kent, England. Paulin created iconic pieces such as the Mushroom Chair and the Ribbon Chair. Liaigre's work is characterized by its clean lines and minimalist aesthetic.
After Stéphane Boudin's death in 1967, colleague Pierre Delbée took over the business. Maison Jansen came under new ownership in 1979 and finally closed in 1989.
Majolica
Majolica is a trade name first used in England by the Minton Pottery, and later by others including Wedgwood, Copeland, George Jones, and in Australia by John Campbell and Bendigo Pottery. A large quantity of majolica was also produced in England and Europe that is unmarked, or was made by minor manufacturers.
Majolica is an earthenware pottery decorated with a clear lead glaze and is characterised by vivid colour and a high gloss finish.
It was first introduced in England by Minton at the Great Exhibition in London in 1851 as "Palissy ware", named after the inventor, the 16th century French potter Bernard Palissy, (c 1510 - c 1589) and also another type of earthenware coloured by an opaque glaze, which it called "Majolica Ware", the name derived from the Italian maiolica ware. However over time the name "Palissy Ware" was dropped and the wares became known as "Majolica". To add to the confusion, the English pottery A.E. Jones and Sons, of Stoke-on-Trent, used the name "Palissy" for its majolica wares.
Malachite
Malachite is bright copper-green coloured stone with concentric layers which displays distinct contrasting veinings. It has been valued in the past for making or decorating small precious objects such as clocks, jewellery, dishes and so. In the Orient it was used for snuff bottles and in Russia and was favoured by the Faberge workshop. larger pieces were used for table tops.
The principal source of supply was Russia but it is to be found in other regions such as Southern Africa, Mexico, Australia and France.
Malachite glass is a manufactured material that was intended to resemble malachite, but often bears more resemblance to a veined coloured marble due to its lower gloss finish and lack of concentric layers. Malachite glass was manufactured by many glassworks in the 19th century including Loetz in Austria and others in Bohemia and Davidson's Greener's and Sowerby in north eastern England.
It was particularly used for scent bottles, bowls, and small vases often decorated with nymphs.
Malachite glass has been manufactured continuously since the late nineteenth century, most is unmarked and it is difficult to distinguish the age or manufacturer of most commercial pieces.
Maling Pottery
Maling pottery was produced in the north east of England for just over two centuries. The pottery was founded at North Hylton near Sunderland in 1762, by Robert Maling, and transferred to Newcastle upon Tyne in 1817. It was Robert Maling’s son, Christopher Thompson Maling II, who took the business in a new and profitable direction in the 1850s. He devised a way to make pottery. The company was known for its high-quality tableware, decorative pieces, and packaging materials.
The company's early years were focused on the production of utilitarian wares, such as jugs, mugs, and plates. However, in the 19th century, the company began to produce more decorative pieces, such as vases, figurines, and tea sets. The company also began to produce packaging materials, such as labels, boxes, and wrapping paper.
By the 1920s Maling was producing over two hundred new designs a year in a successful attempt to meet the changing tastes of the British public. Many of these designs were from the hand of the father and son team Lucien Emile and Lucien George Boullemier. Both had been recruited from the Staffordshire potteries. These designers helped to create a new look for the company's products, which were now known for their Art Deco style. The company also began to produce a range of novelty items, such as salt and pepper shakers, ashtrays, and figurines.
By the outbreak of war, the Maling family members who had been directly involved in running the pottery were deceased and the business was in the hands of trustees. After the war the pottery came into the hands of new owners, the Hoult family. Although investment was made, the scale of operations was reduced, with fewer staff having to put up with a downsized working area. In a slow spiral of decline fewer new patterns were introduced and fewer products sold.
Eventually, competition from more modern and streamlined potteries caused Maling to close in 1963. In two centuries it had produced over 16,500 patterns. Items ranged from simple kitchen wares such as pudding basins to highly gilded, lustred and enamelled pieces for display in fashionable homes.
Mamie Venner
Mamie Venner (1881-1974) was an Australian artist who was known for her skill in painting and pottery. She was born in Ballarat, Victoria, in 1881 and grew up in Melbourne. She studied art at the National Gallery School in Melbourne and later at the Academie Colarossi in Paris.
Venner's early works were predominantly paintings, and she exhibited her paintings at the Royal Academy in London and the Paris Salon. She was also interested in pottery and began experimenting with ceramics in the early 1900s. She was particularly interested in the Japanese art of raku firing and was one of the first Australian potters to experiment with this technique.
Venner's pottery work was highly praised for its quality and uniqueness. Her pieces were often inspired by the Australian landscape and natural environment, and she experimented with different glazes and firing techniques to create distinctive textures and effects.
Venner was also an active member of the arts community in Australia, and she was involved in a number of art societies and organizations. She was a founding member of the Victorian Artists Society and the Australian Academy of Art, and she served as the president of the Women's Art Society of Victoria.
Mamie Venner passed away in 1974 at the age of 93.
Mandarin Palette
The Mandarin palette is a decorative style used to decorate Chinese export porcelain, which was produced in China specifically for export to Europe and other parts of the world from the 16th to the 19th century. The Mandarin palette is characterized by a bright and colourful design featuring various figures, landscapes, and ornamental motifs.
The Mandarin palette was first used during the reign of the Kangxi Emperor (1662-1722) in the Qing dynasty. It was named after the Mandarin officials who were depicted in the designs, wearing their distinctive robes and hats. The palette was popular among European collectors and was often used to decorate tea services, vases, and other decorative objects.
The Mandarin palette was made up of a limited number of colours, typically blue, green, pink, and gold. The designs often featured figures in a garden setting, surrounded by trees, rocks, and pavilions. Some of the most popular motifs included dragons, birds, flowers, and auspicious symbols, such as bats and peaches.
The Mandarin palette remained popular throughout the Qing dynasty and was used to decorate a wide range of Chinese export porcelain. It continued to be popular among European collectors into the 19th century, and its influence can be seen in the work of many European ceramic artists of the time.
Manganese Glaze
A manganese glaze contains manganese dioxide as a colorant. When fired at high temperatures, the manganese dioxide in the glaze reacts with the clay body to create a range of colors, including brown, black, purple, and deep red.
Manganese glazes have been used to decorate ceramics for thousands of years, and they have been particularly popular in Chinese and Korean pottery. In China, manganese glazes were first used during the Song dynasty (960-1279 AD), and they were later used in the production of Jun ware during the Ming dynasty (1368-1644 AD). In Korea, manganese glazes were used to decorate celadon pottery during the Goryeo dynasty (918-1392 AD).
The glaze can be applied to pottery using a variety of techniques, including brushing, pouring, and spraying. The glaze can be applied alone or in combination with other glazes to create a range of effects, including speckled or mottled surfaces. However these glazes can be difficult to control, as they tend to be very fluid and can easily run or drip during firing. However, this fluidity can also be used to create interesting effects, such as the "hare's fur" pattern that is often seen in Chinese tea bowls.
Manganese glazes are still in use by potters and ceramic artists to create unique and beautiful surfaces on their work.
Manner of .... / Style of .....
A cataloguing term where the item, in the opinion of the cataloguer is a work in the style of the artist, craftsman or designer, possibly of a later period.
Manolo Blahnik
Manolo Blahnik was born in Santa Cruz de la Palma, in the Spanish Canary Islands in 1942. He developed an early interest in fashion and design, and he began drawing shoes at a young age. After studying languages and art in Geneva, he moved to Paris to pursue a career in set design. However, it was in London that he found his true calling.
In 1971, Blahnik opened his first boutique in Chelsea. His shoes were an immediate hit, and he quickly became one of the most sought-after footwear designers in the world. Blahnik's designs are known for their elegance, femininity, and attention to detail. He is a master of craftsmanship, and his shoes are made with the finest materials and construction.
Blahnik has won numerous awards for his work, including the CFDA Lifetime Achievement Award and the Order of the British Empire. He is also a member of the Royal Academy of Arts. In addition to his own line of shoes, Blahnik has also designed shoes for other brands, such as Jimmy Choo and Dior. He has also collaborated with artists and designers such as Andy Warhol and David Hockney.
Manolo Blahnik is an icon of the fashion world and his shoes are known for their beauty, quality, and timeless style.
Maori Artifacts - Important Notice
There are a diverse collection of objects that represent the
culture and history of the Maori people of New Zealand. These artefacts vary in
type, style, and function, and include the following:
Weapons: Maori weapons were traditionally made from wood,
bone, and stone, and included clubs, spears, and weapons with serrated edges,
such as the patu and mere.
Carvings: Maori carvings are highly symbolic and often
depict stories and legends from Maori mythology. These carvings can be found on
buildings, canoes, and other objects, and are often intricately detailed.
Jewellery: Maori jewellery often features intricate designs
and is made from materials such as bone, stone, and shell. Pendants, earrings,
and bracelets are all common forms of Maori jewellery.
Taonga puoro (musical instruments): These are traditional
Maori musical instruments, such as the p?t?tara (conch shell trumpet) and the
k?auau (flute). Maori music is an important part of the culture and these
instruments play a vital role in traditional Maori ceremonies and performances.
Clothing: Maori clothing traditionally includes woven flax
garments, such as the piupiu (a skirt made from flax), as well as cloaks made
from feathers or animal skins.
Waka (canoes): Maori were skilled boat builders and waka
were an important part of Maori culture, used for transport, fishing, and
warfare. Maori waka can be found in a variety of sizes and styles.
Maori artifacts - Important Notice
These collectors have a ‘registered number’. Y numbered artefacts cannot leave the country without written permission from the Ministry for Culture & Heritage. Those who are not registered collectors, and usually reside in New Zealand, can apply to the Ministry for Culture and Heritage to become one.
There are no restrictions on the purchase of Maori items that have no Y number or Pacific Island or other artefacts from around the world.
As this site is a price guide, and does not offer items for sale, the Y numbers applicable to any items on this site are not displayed..
Maori Themed Rugs and Carpets
New Zealand has a rich history of textile production, and several companies have produced Maori-themed rugs and blankets over the years. These rugs have been made with designs that incorporate traditional Maori symbols and patterns, such as the koru, which represents new life and growth, or the manaia, which symbolizes guardianship and protection.
Here are some examples of companies that have created Maori-inspired textiles:
• Roslyn Dunedin Textiles: This company was founded in the 1879s and produced a range of woolen products, including blankets and rugs. They created Maori-themed designs in the mid-twentieth century, incorporating traditional symbols and patterns such as the koru and the manaia. The mill closed in 1980 when the company went into receivership.
• U.E.B. Textiles Dunedin: This company was established in the 1940s and produced a range of textiles, including Maori-inspired rugs and blankets. Their designs often featured bold geometric patterns and bright colours, and were popular both in New Zealand and overseas.
• Onehunga Woollen Mills: This company was founded in 1886 to produce woollen cloth, and produced a range of woollen products, including blankets and rugs. They created Maori-themed designs in the mid-twentieth century, incorporating traditional symbols and patterns such as the tiki and the kowhaiwhai. The mill closed in 2012.
• Mosgiel Woollens Ltd: This company was established in the early 1870s and produced a range of woollen products, including blankets and rugs. They created Maori-inspired designs in the mid-twentieth century, incorporating traditional symbols and patterns such as the koru and the tiki. In 1980 the Mosgiel Woollen Mill went into receivership after operating for nearly 110 years. The factory was sold and manufacturing continued on-site, but on a smaller scale. The mill closed permanently in 2000.
These companies and their Maori-themed textiles are an important part of New Zealand's cultural heritage, and their designs continue to inspire and influence textile production in the country today.
Maple
Maple, native to North America, is a dense heavy timber from light to yellow-brown in colour. It has very little distincive graining unless it is one of the variants such as birds-eye maple or burr maple, so was not used extensively for furniture in 18th and 19th century, where cabinetmakers and designers preferred timbers with more distinctive features such as mahogany, walnut, rosewood and oak.
Birds-eye maple has a seres of small spots linked by undulating lines in the grain, is highly sough and is used as a decorative veneer. Burr maple has larger and irregular grain swirls than birds-eye maple.
Maple & Co.
Maple & Co. was a British furniture and upholstery manufacturer established in 1841 which found particular success during the Victorian and Edwardian eras. The company became one of the prime makers and suppliers of furniture to the aristocracy and royalty in both the United Kingdom and around the world. Maple & Co. was also known for its high quality craftsmanship and its use of traditional materials and techniques.
The company was founded by John Maple (28 February 1815 – 4 March 1900) in the early 19th century. After completing his apprenticeship with shopkeeper James Constable in Surrey, Maple partnered with his former co-worker James Cook and in the spring of 1841 they opened Cook & Maple at 145 Tottenham Court Road. In 1851, the partnership between John Maple and James Cook dissolved, leaving Maple as sole proprietor of the company. After the separation Cook managed his own store at number 22 & 23 Queens Buildings, London.
Maple & Co. quickly became one of the leading furniture retailers in London. The company's showrooms were located in Tottenham Court Road, and they also had a workshop in Islington. Maple & Co. was known for its high quality furniture, and they were particularly skilled in copying antique designs. The company also produced a wide range of original designs, and they were known for their innovative use of materials and techniques.
The furniture of Maple & Co.was popular with the aristocracy and royalty, and the company supplied furniture to many famous people, including Queen Victoria, King Edward VII, and the Prince of Wales. The company also exported furniture to many countries around the world, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and India.
Maple & Co. continued to be successful throughout the 20th century, and the company opened new stores in Paris, Buenos Aires, and Montevideo. However, the company began to decline in the 1970s, and it was eventually acquired by Waring & Gillow in 1980. Waring & Gillow continued to operate the Maple & Co. brand until 1997, when the company went into receivership.
Although Maple & Co. is no longer in business, but the company's furniture is still highly sought after by collectors and interior designers, and is known for its high quality craftsmanship, its use of traditional materials and techniques, and its elegant designs.
Mappin & Webb
Mappin & Webb is a British company that was established in 1889, but its origins go back to 1775 when Jonathan Mappin opened a silver smithing workshop in Sheffield. The business passed down through generations until it was incorporated as Mappin Brothers Ltd by Jonathan's four great-grandsons. In 1859, William, the eldest brother, left the business and the youngest, John, started his own firm called Mappin & Company. In 1864, John's brother-in-law George Webb joined the business, and they renamed it Mappin, Webb & Co. and then Mappin & Webb Ltd in 1889.
Mappin Brothers Ltd remained with the middle two brothers who expanded the business, and it was eventually sold to John Mappin, who incorporated it into Mappin & Webb Ltd. In 1897, Mappin & Webb received their first Royal Warrant from Queen Victoria, and they launched their acclaimed Campaign watch the following year. The company expanded rapidly, with stores in twelve locations by 1910, including Johannesburg, Biarritz, Rome, Buenos Aires, and Cairo.
The company's silverware was purchased by royalty from Europe and beyond, and Mappin & Webb created commemorative pieces for royal occasions and important events. They also made fine jewellery and opened an in-store branch in Selfridges in 1977. Mappin & Webb's master craftsman was appointed the Crown Jeweller by Queen Elizabeth II in 2012. The company currently holds warrants from both the Queen and the Prince of Wales. After being owned by the Asprey Garrard Group, the company is now owned by the retail group Arum Holdings Ltd.
Marbling
A descriptive term for a finish applied to plastic, ceramics, glass, plaster or wood to imitate the colours and characteristic markings of various marble types. For moulded items such as the first three above, the marbling is within the item.
Interiors and furniture were marbled from from the early 17th century to the late Victorian period. The craft was practiced by skilled decorators using a combination of brushes and sponges. Some of the finishes achieved were so realistic as to make it difficult to distinguish the marbled surface from the marble surface.
Marbling is also a term applied to a finish for paper as often seen in the front and endpapers of old books. The marbling is achieved by floating the colours on water and then transferring them to paper. However the marbling finish on paper, as with the marbling finish on plastics, with its multitude of colours has little resemblance to naturally occurring marble.
Marc Newson
Marc Newson is an Australian industrial designer born in 1963, who has worked and lived in several cities and currently resides in the UK where he established his company, Marc Newson Limited, in 1997. Newson's clientele consists of many high-end brands, and he has held senior positions at Qantas Airways and Apple. He co-founded the creative collective LoveFrom with Sir Jonathan Ive in 2019.
He began his career by hand-making furniture and timepieces in a workshop in Sydney, with early designs like the Super Guppy Lamp, Pod of Drawers, and Embryo Chair. At the age of 25, Newson created the Lockheed Lounge, a riveted aluminum chaise longue that has become one of the most iconic contemporary design works, setting four world record prices at auction for work created by a living designer.
Newson's design pieces are highly sought after on the secondary market and are displayed in permanent collections of various major museums worldwide. Newson has received numerous industry awards and distinctions and has been included in TIME Magazine's 100 Most Influential People.
His work has been widely featured in books and publications globally, and he has been the subject of various radio and television programs. He is considered one of the most influential designers of his generation, working across a broad range of disciplines, including furniture, luxury goods, technology, marine, automotive, and aviation design.
Marcasite
Marcasite is a mineral, iron sulphide, but is rarely used in jewellery. Instead marcasite is the name given to iron pyrites, the mineral sold as marcasite which is identical in copmosition to iron sulphide but crystalises as a cube, making it more suitable for jewellery. It is a brassy yellow in colour and is also known as "fool's gold", and sits well with silver rather than gold becasue of its colour.
Marcasite has been used in jewellery since ancient times and became popular again in jewellery in the 18th century, continuing through to the early 20th century, with the settings becoming cheaper as time progressed, eventually earning the sobriquet "costume jewellery" along with other cheap jewellery that was made for a prevailing pattern and meant to be changed with each new outfit.
Marcel Breuer
Marcel Lajos Breuer (1902 - 1981) was a Hungarian-born American architect and furniture and lighting designer. He is best known for his contributions to the development of modernist architecture and furniture design in the 20th century.
Breuer was born in Pécs, Hungary and began his career as an apprentice to the architect, Josef Hoffmann in Vienna. He later studied at the Bauhaus school of design in Germany, where he developed an interest in modernist architecture and furniture design. He was a teacher at the Bauhaus school from 1920 to 1928, and during this time he began experimenting with new forms and materials, including the use of steel tubing in furniture design.
In the 1920s and 1930s, he moved to the United States, where he continued to work as an architect and designer, and established a successful practice in New York City. He designed many notable buildings during this time, including the Whitney Museum of American Art in New York City, and the UNESCO headquarters in Paris.uer
His furniture designs, particularly the Wassily Chair and the Cesca Chair, are considered iconic examples of the modernist style, and are still widely used and admired today. They are characterized by the use of tubular steel and simple geometric forms.
Breuer was a major figure in the development of modern architecture and furniture design and his work continues to be widely studied and appreciated. His design and architecture work are highly influential till date and continues to inspire many architects and designers.
Marcel Wanders
Marcel Wanders was born in Boxtel, The Netherlands, in 1963. He studied design at the Hogeschool voor de Kunsten Institute of the Arts Arnhem, graduating cum laude in 1988. Wanders first gained international attention in 1996 with his iconic Knotted Chair, which he designed for Droog Design. The chair is made of a single piece of rope that is knotted and glued into shape, and it is a playful and whimsical take on traditional furniture design. Wanders' work is known for its eclectic mix of styles and influences. He draws inspiration from everything from traditional Dutch craftsmanship to modern art and pop culture. His designs are often characterised by their humour, wit, and sense of wonder.
In 2000, Wanders founded his own design studio, Moooi. Moooi has produced some of Wanders' most iconic designs, including the Monkey Table, the Bride's Veil lamp, and the Her Majesty armchair. Wanders has also designed for a wide range of other clients, including Alessi, Baccarat, Bisazza, Christofle, Flos, KLM, Hyatt Hotels Corporation, and Louis Vuitton.
In addition to his work as a product designer, Wanders is also a prolific interior designer. He has designed the interiors of hotels, restaurants, and retail stores all over the world. Wanders' approach to interior design is similar to his approach to product design: he creates spaces that are both functional and whimsical.
Wanders has received numerous awards for his work, including the Rotterdam Design Prize, the Kho Liang Ie Prize, and the Red Dot Award. He has also been named one of the "25 leaders of change" by Business Week magazine. Wanders' work is both timeless and contemporary.
His designs are a reflection of his own unique personality and his eclectic taste and his work is featured in major museums and design collections around the world, including the Museum of Modern Art in New York City, the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, and the Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam.
Marcel-Andre Bouraine
Marcel-André Bouraine was a prominent French sculptor known for his Art Deco creations during the early to mid-20th century. Born on November 17, 1886, in Pontoise, France, his work played a significant role in the Art Deco movement, which was characterized by its sleek, geometric designs and a fascination with the intersection of art and industry.
During World War I, Bouraine was a prisoner of war and was taken to Switzerland. He later studied at École Supérieure des Beaux-Arts, Genève. During the 1920s and 1930s, Bouraine's work came to epitomize the Art Deco style. His sculptures often depicted graceful, elongated figures, emphasizing sleek lines and a sense of modernity.
Bouraine's work was part of the sculpture event in the art competition at the 1924 Summer Olympics.[3] In 1928, he designed statuettes in pâte de verre for glass manufacturer Gabriel Argy-Rousseau.[5] He exhibited two large sculptures at the Exposition Internationale des Arts et Techniques dans la Vie Moderne of 1937 in Paris.
He was particularly renowned for his female figures, which showcased the idealized beauty and elegance of the era. Bouraine's creations captured the essence of the Roaring Twenties and the sophistication of the Jazz Age.
One of his notable works is the sculpture "L'Inconnue des Buttes-Chaumont," which portrayed a slender, graceful dancer. This work exemplified his ability to infuse a sense of movement and vitality into his sculptures. Many of his sculptures also incorporated materials like bronze and ivory, showcasing his technical mastery. His work can be found in museum collections, including at the Art Institute of Chicago, and the Norwich Castle Museum and Art Gallery.
Unfortunately, the outbreak of World War II disrupted Bouraine's artistic career. He passed away in Paris in 1948, leaving behind a legacy of iconic Art Deco sculptures.
Marcello Fantoni
Marcello Fantoni was an Italian artist and ceramist born in 1915, in Florence and was a was a prominent figure in the mid-20th century Italian ceramic art movement. He studied at the Academy of Fine Arts in Florence, where he developed a passion for ceramics. In the 1930s, he began working with the famed ceramicist Giovanni Garbugino and quickly gained recognition for his innovative approach to the craft.
During the 1940s and 1950s, Fantoni established his own studio and became associated with the artistic movement known as "Ceramica D'Arte Toscana." His work during this period was characterized by bold, expressive designs, often featuring sculptural elements and vibrant colours. He experimented with various glazing techniques, contributing to the evolution of contemporary Italian ceramics.
Fantoni's creations ranged from decorative pieces and sculptures to functional items like vases and plates. His work reflected a combination of traditional craftsmanship and modern aesthetics, making him a key figure in the revitalization of Italian ceramics after World War II.
While Marcello Fantoni was primarily known for his work in ceramics, he did venture into various artistic mediums, including lighting design. His approach to lighting was an extension of his broader artistic style, characterized by bold and expressive forms.
Fantoni's lighting designs often showcased his mastery of sculptural elements. He created lamps that were not just functional but also works of art in their own right. The designs could feature unique shapes, textures, and glazes that reflected his innovative approach to ceramics.
The artist's reputation extended beyond Italy, and his pieces gained international acclaim. Fantoni participated in numerous exhibitions worldwide, showcasing the diversity and creativity of Italian ceramics. His collaborations with architects and designers further expanded his influence in the art world.
Marcello Fantoni's career continued to flourish into the 1960s and 1970s. However, as tastes in art shifted, interest in traditional ceramics waned, and the market for such pieces diminished. Fantoni adapted by exploring new artistic endeavors, including painting and sculpture.
Marcello Fantoni passed away on March 9, 2011, leaving behind a legacy of innovative and influential contributions to the world of Italian pottery and ceramics.
Marco Zanuso
Marco Zanuso was an Italian architect and designer who is considered one of the leading figures of mid-century modern design. He was born in Milan in 1916 and studied architecture at the Politecnico di Milano, graduating in 1939. After the war, he opened his own design firm in Milan and began collaborating with a number of leading manufacturers, including Arflex, Cassina, and Zanotta.
Zanuso's furniture designs are characterized by their clean lines, simple forms, and use of innovative materials. He was particularly interested in using new plastics and metal alloys, and he often experimented with new production techniques. Some of his most iconic designs include the Lady armchair (1951), the Superleggera chair (1957), and the Elettra television (1964).
Zanuso was also a prolific industrial designer, and he created a wide range of products, including cameras, radios, and office furniture. He was also a co-founder of the design magazine Domus, and he served as its editor-in-chief from 1947 to 1949.
Zanuso's work has been exhibited around the world, and he has received numerous awards for his design achievements. He was a member of the Royal Institute of British Architects and the American Institute of Architects, and he was awarded the Compasso d'Oro, the highest honor in Italian design, five times.
Zanuso died in Milan in 2001 at the age of 85.
Margaret Milne
Margaret Milne (1922-2013) was born in Auckland, New Zealand in 1922. She began pottery making at the age of 40, after taking a class from potter Patricia Perrin. She was immediately drawn to the medium, and she quickly developed a distinctive style. Milne's early work was influenced by traditional Maori pottery, but she also experimented with new techniques and materials. She worked primarily with earthenware, stoneware, and the Japanese Raku technique, and her work is characterized by its bold forms, vibrant colours, and unique textures.
In the 1960s, Milne formed Waterford Potters with Guy and Jocelyn Mountain. The studio was located in Remuera, Auckland, and it quickly became a center for pottery making in New Zealand. She was also an early member of 12 Potters, an Auckland-based pottery co-operative. In the 1970s, Milne spent some time working and travelling in Japan. She was particularly influenced by the work of Japanese potter Takeichi Kawai. Kawai was a master of the Raku technique, and Milne was impressed by his innovative use of materials and glazes.
Milne's work has been exhibited extensively in New Zealand and internationally. She has also received numerous awards for her work, including the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to pottery. Her work is held in public collections throughout New Zealand, including the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, the Auckland War Memorial Museum, and the Christchurch Art Gallery.
Mariano Fortuny
Mariano Fortuny y Madrazo was a Spanish fashion designer, artist, and photographer born on May 11, 1871, in Granada, Spain. He was the son of the famous painter Mariano Fortuny and was raised in a family of artists and intellectuals.
Fortuny was a versatile artist and made his mark in various fields, including fashion, theatre design, photography, and painting. He is best known for his innovative designs in women's fashion and is considered to be one of the pioneers of the Art Nouveau movement. He created luxurious, flowing gowns that combined traditional techniques with modern elements, making them truly unique.
In 1906, Fortuny opened his fashion studio in Venice, where he developed a new printing process that allowed him to create intricate patterns on silk and other fabrics. He also created the famous Delphos gown, a pleated garment that was inspired by ancient Greek clothing and became one of his signature pieces.
Fortuny's work was highly sought after by royalty, celebrities, and high society, and his fashion studio became one of the most exclusive in Europe. He continued to innovate and experiment with new materials and techniques, and his influence can be seen in the work of many contemporary designers.
Fortuny died in 1949 in Venice, Italy, at the age of 78. His legacy continues to inspire artists and designers, and his contributions to the world of fashion are still remembered and celebrated today.
Mariano Fortuny
Mariano Fortuny y Madrazo was a Spanish fashion designer, artist, and photographer born on May 11, 1871, in Granada, Spain. He was the son of the famous painter Mariano Fortuny and was raised in a family of artists and intellectuals.
Fortuny was a versatile artist and made his mark in various fields, including fashion, theatre design, photography, and painting. He is best known for his innovative designs in women's fashion and is considered to be one of the pioneers of the Art Nouveau movement. He created luxurious, flowing gowns that combined traditional techniques with modern elements, making them truly unique.
In 1906, Fortuny opened his fashion studio in Venice, where he developed a new printing process that allowed him to create intricate patterns on silk and other fabrics. He also created the famous Delphos gown, a pleated garment that was inspired by ancient Greek clothing and became one of his signature pieces.
Fortuny's work was highly sought after by royalty, celebrities, and high society, and his fashion studio became one of the most exclusive in Europe. He continued to innovate and experiment with new materials and techniques, and his influence can be seen in the work of many contemporary designers.
Fortuny died in 1949 in Venice, Italy, at the age of 78. His legacy continues to inspire artists and designers, and his contributions to the world of fashion are still remembered and celebrated today.
Marine Chronometer
A marine chronometer is a clock with a highly accurate time-keeping mechanism that can be used to determine longitude by means of celestial navigation..
They were essential navigational instruments for mariners and used in conjunction with the sextant they can determine an accurate calculation of the latitude and longitude of a vessel.
Prior to the invention of the chronometer in the 18th century, there was no reliable method for determining longitude, (although latitude could be calculated) with the result that ships could end up many miles east or west from their proposed destination, and even worse, run aground on land or reefs.
Credit for the invention of the chronometer is given to John Harrison, originally a Yorkshire carpenter, who spent most of his working life perfecting the invention.
Chronometers are usually mounted on gimbals and housed in a highly polished block-shaped wooden case often with protective brass edges, handles and a viewing lid. Emphasising the importance placed on safeguarding the chronometer, this was then second felt-lined wooden case.
The marine chronometer became redundant as a navigational aid in the early 1920s with the introduction if radio time signals.
Although no longer required for navigation, the quality of the workmanship in the chronometer has inspired collectors.
Prices for chronometers are determined by the name of the maker and the country of origin of the chronometer, whether the movement is of two or eight day duration, the quality of the casing, its provenance or history and, most importantly, by the condition of the movement and whether it has been altered or not, or includes any special features.
Sought after English makers include Thomas Mercer, Arnold & Dent, Parkinson and Frodsham, and Charles Shepherd.
Mario Bellini
Born on February 1, 1935, in Milan, Italy, Mario Bellini is a renowned Italian architect and designer recognized for his contributions to various fields such as furniture, architecture, and product design. He has received numerous accolades throughout his career, including Italy's prestigious design award, the Compasso d'Oro.
Bellini pursued his architectural studies at the Politecnico di Milano and completed his degree in 1959. Initially working as an architect, he later transitioned into the realm of design.
In 1963, Bellini achieved his first major design success with the creation of the Camaleonda sofa for B&B Italia. The Camaleonda, a modular sofa renowned for its versatility in configuration, quickly gained popularity for both residential and commercial spaces.
Over the years, Bellini ventured into designing an extensive array of furniture, encompassing chairs, tables, lamps, and storage units. He collaborated with various companies, including Olivetti, Yamaha, and Renault, and his designs have been exhibited in galleries and museums worldwide.
Some of Bellini's most famous designs include the Camaleonda sofa (1963), Le Bambole sofa (1977), Cab chair (1977), Isokon Diamond chair (1981), Silo table (1981), Proust armchair (1988), Mezzaluna table (1991), and Bellini chair (1998).
Bellini's passion for design extended beyond his creations. He authored notable books such as "Mario Bellini: Design, Furniture, Architecture" and "Mario Bellini: The Complete Works." Additionally, he imparted his knowledge as a teacher at the Politecnico di Milano and the Domus Academy.
A member of the esteemed Accademia di San Luca, Bellini is considered a highly influential designer of the 20th century. His works are characterized by their elegant simplicity and functionality, revolutionizing living and working environments. Design enthusiasts across the globe continue to admire and collect his creations.
His designs have graced esteemed galleries and museums, such as the Museum of Modern Art in New York City, the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, and the Centre Pompidou in Paris. Mario Bellini's significant contributions to the world of design have rightfully earned him international acclaim and numerous prestigious awards.
Mario Buccellati
Mario Buccellati was an Italian jewellery designer known for his exquisite craftsmanship and innovative designs. Born on April 17, 1891, in Milan, Italy, he came from a family with a long tradition of jewellery-making. His father, Contardo Buccellati, founded the Buccellati jewellery firm in 1919, and Mario later took over the family business, elevating it to international recognition. Mario Buccellati showed a passion for art and design from an early age. He studied sculpture at the Brera Academy in Milan and also trained as a goldsmith. His artistic sensibilities and technical skills laid the foundation for his future success in the world of jewellery.
In 1919, at the age of 28, Mario opened his first boutique in Milan under the name "Mario Buccellati." He quickly gained attention for his distinctive style, characterized by intricate metalwork, delicate engravings, and the use of precious gemstones. Buccellati's designs were heavily influenced by Italian Renaissance and Baroque art, often featuring motifs such as flowers, leaves, and lace-like patterns. His craftsmanship and attention to detail earned him a reputation for creating unique, one-of-a-kind pieces. His jewellery pieces were not only exquisite adornments but also works of art. Buccellati's designs appealed to a discerning clientele, including royalty, celebrities, and prominent figures from around the world.
Throughout his career, Buccellati expanded his business beyond Italy, opening boutiques in major cities such as Rome, Florence, and New York. He also collaborated with renowned jewellery houses and luxury brands, such as Cartier and Tiffany & Co., further solidifying his reputation as a master jeweller. One of Buccellati's notable contributions to the jewellery industry was his innovative metalwork techniques. He developed a signature style known as "rigato," which involved hand-engraving intricate patterns on metal surfaces, creating a textured and luminous effect. This technique became a hallmark of Buccellati's designs and set his jewellery apart from others.
Mario Buccellati's career spanned several decades, during which he received numerous accolades and honors. His work was exhibited at prestigious events, including the Venice Biennale, and he was awarded the Italian Order of Merit for Culture and Art in 1951.
Mario Buccellati passed away on January 16, 1965, leaving a legacy of exceptional craftsmanship and artistic expression. His family continued the Buccellati jewellery dynasty, and the brand remains synonymous with timeless elegance, meticulous craftsmanship, and the enduring beauty of Italian jewellery design.
Mark Brazier-Jones
Mark Brazier-Jones was born in 1956 in New Zealand. then moved with his family to the United Kingdom at the age of 12. After earning a BA in Ceramic Sculpture, Brazier-Jones started working in the emerging music video industry. In the late 1970s and early ’80s, he designed and built sets for the likes of David Bowie, Duran Duran, Spandau Ballet, Freddy Mercury, and Elton John.
With three friends he started the Creative Salvage Group in 1983, later to be joined by André Dubreuil and their first show of welded sculpture-furniture sold out and opened a new chapter in design history. He later moved to Hertfordshire and set up a workshop in a 16th century barn where he creates one-off and limited-edition furniture using a variety of materials not all associated with traditional furniture making including wood, bronze, copper, marble aluminium and brass.
Some of Mark Brazier-Jones's most notable furniture designs include:
• the "Tripod" chair (1990), made from three bentwood legs and a leather seat.
• the "Totem" table (1992), made from a single piece of wood that has been carved into a series of geometric shapes. Totem table by Mark Brazier-Jones Opens in a new window
• the "Tiki" chair (1994), inspired by traditional Maori carvings, made from wood and leather, and it has a distinctively Maori aesthetic.
• the "Coconut" chair (2000), made from coconut shells and rope.
Amongst the museums holding his work are the Victoria & Albert Museum, London, the Louvre, Paris, and the Museum of Art and Design, New York.
Marklin Toys
Gebruder Marklin, commonly known as Märklin, is a German manufacturer of model trains and other toys. The company was founded in 1859 by Theodor Friedrich Wilhelm Märklin in the town of Göppingen, in the state of Baden-Württemberg, Germany.
Märklin started as a maker of metal toys, including dolls' house furniture, kitchen utensils, and other household items. In the 1890s, the company began producing clockwork trains, and in 1900 it introduced its first electric train. This was a significant development, as electric trains offered greater speed, reliability, and realism than clockwork models.
Märklin quickly became known for the quality and detail of its trains, which featured accurate reproductions of real-world locomotives, rolling stock, and scenery. The company's trains were popular around the world, and by the 1930s, Märklin was the leading manufacturer of toy trains in Europe.
During World War II, Märklin was forced to halt production of toy trains and instead focused on making military equipment for the German army. After the war, the company resumed production of trains and quickly regained its position as a leading manufacturer.
In the years that followed, Märklin continued to innovate, introducing new technologies such as digital control systems and sound effects. The company also expanded its product line to include other model vehicles, such as cars, trucks, and airplanes.
Märklin remains an established major player in the model train industry, known for its high-quality products and attention to detail. The company continues to innovate, developing new technologies and designs to keep pace with the changing interests of hobbyists and collectors.
Marquetry
In marquetry inlay, contrasting woods, and other materials such as ivory, shell and metal are inlaid either as panels or in a single continuous sheet over the surface of the piece. The design may be straightforward, such as a shell pattern or a basket of flowers, or it may be infinitely complex, with swirling tendrils of leaves, flowers and foliage, such as one finds, for example, in the "seaweed" patterns on longcase clocks of the William and Mary and Queen Anne periods.
Marriage Chest or Coffer
A marriage chest, also known as a hope chest or a dowry chest, is a large, ornate wooden chest that has traditionally been used in many cultures to store household items and personal belongings. In many cultures, the chest is given as a gift to a young woman in anticipation of her marriage, and is often filled with items such as linens, towels, clothing, and other household goods.
The practice of giving a marriage chest as a gift has a long history, dating back to ancient times. In many cultures, the chest was seen as a symbol of a woman's worth and her ability to manage a household. The chest was often decorated with intricate carvings or paintings and was considered a valuable possession in its own right.
In some cultures, the marriage chest was also used as a form of dowry, with the chest and its contents serving as a way for the bride's family to provide for her in the event of her husband's death or other unforeseen circumstances.
Marriage chests are still used in some cultures as a symbol of tradition and family heritage. They are often passed down from generation to generation as a treasured family heirloom, and may be used to store a variety of items, from family photographs and documents to personal mementos and keepsakes. While the practice of giving a marriage chest as a gift has declined in many cultures, the chests themselves continue to hold a special place in the hearts and homes of many families.
Marrow Scoops and Spoons
An item of cutlery used from the late 17th century, designed for extracting bone marrow from bone cavities after cooking. Bone marrow was considered a delicacy and at a time when cutlery was coming into use, a marrow scoop enabled a diner to extract the marrow with finesse, rather than sucking, slurping and mouthing the bones.
Some marrow scoops have a spoon like end, while others have a long narrow gulley end, and some are double ended with different size scoops at each end to suit various sized bones.
Marrow Spoon
A spoon with a long handle and a narrow scoop shaped bowl, used to scoop and eat marrow from the hollow centre of roasted bones. Some marrow scoops are double ended with a different shaped bowl at each end.
Marsh, Jones & Cribb (uk)
Marsh, Jones & Cribb was founded in the mid 19th century, based in Leeds, and in the 1860s opened premises in Cavendish Square, London. In the 1880s and 90s the firm were proponents of the Gothic Revival style and then later Arts & Crafts style. They worked with distinguished designers such as Charles Bevan, Bruce Talbert and William Lethaby.
Each piece manufactured usually bears the name of the craftsman, as well as the name of the company.
In 1923 the firm was taken over by C. P. Sixsmith and after several changes of ownership is still in operation today as a painting and decorator contractor to large companies and government departments.
Martin Boyd Pottery
Martin Boyd pottery was established in 1946 by Guy Martin Boyd, a member of the Boyd family of artists. The company's roots can be traced back to the Boyd family's long history of artistic expression, with several generations of the family known for their contributions to Australian art.
Guy Martin Boyd was the son of the painter Merric Boyd and brother of the renowned potter Arthur Boyd. He had a passion for pottery and spent time in England studying under Bernard Leach, a prominent figure in the studio pottery movement. Guy Martin Boyd returned to Australia in the late 1930s and began producing his own ceramics in a studio he set up in his family home.
In 1951 Guy Martin Boyd established his own pottery company in Cremorne, Victoria, with his wife, Sheila under the name Martin Boyd Pottery. The company quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality, hand-crafted pottery that was both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The pottery was often decorated with abstract designs and patterns inspired by Australian flora and fauna.
In the early 1950s, the Martin Boyd Pottery expanded by purchasing a factory in the Melbourne suburb of Sandringham. The factory allowed the company to increase production and introduce new product lines, including tableware and figurines.
The 1960s saw the company continue to thrive, with Guy Martin Boyd's sons, David and Guy, joining the business. The company began to experiment with new glazes and firing techniques, producing pieces with unique textures and finishes.
The pottery ceased production in 1964.
Martin Bros. (england)
Martin Brothers Studio Ceramics was a British pottery established by Robert Wallace Martin and his brothers in 1873. The studio gained a reputation for producing innovative, quirky, and highly detailed ceramics, often featuring grotesque and comical characters.
Robert Martin, along with his brothers Charles, Edwin, and Walter, commenced pottery production in their father's stoneware factory in Fulham, London. They experimented with glazes and textures, creating unique designs that drew inspiration from a wide range of sources, including medieval art, Japanese ceramics, and the natural world.
Their most famous pieces are the "Wally Birds", which were sculptural birds with distinctive beaks and quirky expressions. The Martin Brothers also produced other animal-inspired sculptures, such as lizards, fish, and frogs, which were often designed as vases or jugs.
The Martin Brothers' pottery was highly sought after by collectors and influential figures of the time, including the writer Oscar Wilde, who was a fan of their work. The studio's success was also due to their exceptional craftsmanship, which involved using traditional techniques, such as hand-thrown and hand-carved stoneware and firing their pieces in a large kiln.
The Martin Brothers' studio closed in 1914, and their work fell out of fashion for several decades. However, in the 1960s, their work began to gain renewed interest among collectors and art enthusiasts, and today, their pieces are highly prized and can sell for significant sums at auction. The Martin Brothers' legacy continues to inspire contemporary ceramic artists, who are drawn to their unique and playful approach to ceramics.
Martin Hall & Co.
Martin Hall & Co. was a British silversmiths firm that was established in Sheffield in1820 by Henry Wilkinson and John Roberts, trading as Wilkinson & Roberts. Wilkinson left in 1846 and Roberts went into partnership with his former apprentice, Ebenezer Hall and became Roberts & Hall. Richard Martin and Joshua Hall (brother of Ebenezer) joined the partnership in 1854 and the firm became Martin, Hall & Co, converting to a limited company in 1866. In 1846, William Hall retired, and the company was renamed Martin, Hall & Co. after Richard Martin, a prominent businessman and silversmith who had joined the firm.
Under Martin's leadership, the company expanded rapidly and became one of the leading silversmiths in England. With a factory in Sheffield, they opened showrooms in London, Birmingham, Glasgow and Sydney. Martin, Hall & Co. was renowned for its high-quality silverware, which was often decorated with intricate designs and patterns. The company also introduced new production techniques and technologies, such as electroplating, which revolutionized the silverware industry in the mid-19th century.
In addition to producing silverware, Martin, Hall & Co. also manufactured other metal items such as tea trays and candlesticks. The company was awarded several royal warrants, including one from Queen Victoria, which helped to establish its reputation as a premier silversmiths firm.
They exhibited at the Great Exhibition in 1851, the International Exhibition in 1862, the Sydney Exhibition in 1879, the Melbourne Exhibition in 1881 and the British Industries Fair in 1915.
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Martin, Hall & Co. continued to expand and acquire other silversmiths firms, including Barker Brothers and James Dixon & Sons. The company also diversified its production, adding items such as cut glass, pottery, and stainless steel to its product line.
Martin, Hall & Co. continued to operate until 1933 when it was delisted.
Martin Poppelwell
Martin Poppelwell was born in Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand in 1969. He studied at the Whanganui Polytechnic, Diploma in Ceramic Design and Production, Elam School of Fine Arts, Auckland in the early 1990s and the University of Otago, Otago Polytechnic, Fine Arts.
He later studied with, Ross Mitchell- Anyon, one of New Zealand’s most renowned potters, gaining a Diploma of Ceramic Design and Production at Wanganui Polytechnic. Poppelwell produced New Zealand pottery of a different kind - items such as a clay nose, cat, swan, skull, rabbit, ruler; all these objects were often placed together as the work of an art installation. As well as ceramics, Poppelwell has also worked within the mediums of printmaking, design, film, fashion, and textiles.
He has exhibited extensively in New Zealand public and private art institutions since the 1990s, including ‘Index: Martin Poppelwell’, Hastings City Art Gallery, 2016. His work is in the Museum of New Zealand, Te Papa Tongarewa, NZ MTG, Hawkes Bay, NZ Lawrence B. Benenson Collection, New York, USA, Reydan Weiss Collection, NZ/ Germany and Reverand Ian Brown Collection, Australia.
His work is in the Museum of New Zealand, Te Papa Tongarewa, NZ MTG, Hawkes Bay, NZ Lawrence B. Benenson Collection, New York, USA, Reydan Weiss Collection, NZ/ Germany and Reverend Ian Brown Collection, Australia.
Martin Sharp
Born in New South Wales in 1942, Martin Sharp studied art and architecture in Sydney. He was a painter, cartoonist and designer, was art editor of 'Oz' magazine, and did cartoons for a number of newspapers and magazines including the 'Bulletin' and 'Sydney Morning Herald'. Martin Sharp exhibited in London, Sydney and Melbourne, and from 1965 to 1974 travelled extensively. His work is represented in Australian and overseas public and private collections. He died in 2013.
Martinelli Luce
Martinelli Luce is an Italian lighting company, founded in 1950 by Elio Martinelli. Elio Martinelli was a designer who had a
passion for lighting and was interested in creating new and innovative designs
that would bring beauty and functionality to people's homes and workplaces.
One of Martinelli Luce's most iconic designs is the
"Cobra" lamp, which was designed by Elio Martinelli in 1968. The lamp
is characterized by its sinuous, serpentine shape and is made from a single
piece of molded resin. The Cobra lamp has become a design classic and is
featured in museum collections around the world.
Over the years, Martinelli Luce has collaborated with a
number of renowned designers and architects, including Sergio Asti, Marc
Sadler, and Norman Foster. The company has also won numerous awards for its
designs, including the prestigious Compasso d'Oro award in 1979 for the Cobra
lamp.
After more than 70 years, Martinelli Luce is an
international company and continues in business to producing innovative and
elegant lighting designs that are both functional and beautiful. The company's
products are sold all over the world and are used in a wide range of settings,
from homes and offices to hotels and public spaces.
Marusan
Marusan was a Japanese toy and model company founded in 1913 in Tokyo by Yoshihiro Ochi, The company was originally called Maruzensha but it changed its name to Marusan in 1923 initially focusing on importing and distributing foreign toys in Japan. However, it wasn't until the 1950s that Marusan began manufacturing its own toys and models, becoming one of the leading toy companies in Japan.
Marusan's early products included wooden toys, such as cars, airplanes, and trains. In the 1930s, the company began to produce metal toys, such as tanks, ships, and airplanes. Marusan also produced a line of tinplate toys, which were popular in Japan during the 1940s.
In the aftermath of World War II, Japan experienced a surge in demand for toys as the country sought to rebuild and recover. Marusan capitalized on this opportunity by producing a wide range of toys, including tinplate vehicles, dolls, wind-up toys, and model kits. The company began to produce plastic toys, the most popular of which were its model kits, which were based on popular Japanese anime and manga characters. Marusan also produced a line of die-cast metal cars, which were popular with collectors.
The company experienced financial difficulties in the late 1970s, and in 1984, it was acquired by the toy company Sanai Sangyo. Marusan ceased operations in 2002
Marx Toys
Marx Toys, was an American toy manufacturer founded by Louis Marx in 1919. Louis Marx was a former employee of Ferdinand Strauss, the founder of the Strauss Toy Company, and he saw an opportunity to start his own business in the toy industry.
Initially, Marx Toys produced a variety of tin toys, including wind-up cars, trucks, and trains. During the Great Depression, the company shifted its focus to producing inexpensive toys, including a line of toy soldiers that became very popular.
In the 1950s, Marx Toys expanded its product line to include plastic toys, such as playsets and model kits. The company also began producing battery-operated toys, such as robots and space toys, which were popular during the Space Race between the United States and the Soviet Union.
Marx Toys was known for producing high-quality toys at an affordable price. The company's toys were sold in department stores and toy stores across the United States, as well as in other countries around the world.
In the 1960s, Marx Toys faced increasing competition from other toy manufacturers, including Mattel and Hasbro. The company attempted to diversify its product line by producing electronic games and other non-toy products, but these ventures were not successful.
In 1972, Louis Marx sold the company to Quaker Oats, which renamed the company Quaker Oats Toys. However, Quaker Oats was not successful in managing the company, and in early 1976, Quaker sold its struggling Marx division to the British conglomerate Dunbee-Combex-Marx, who had bought the former Marx UK subsidiary in 1967. However Dunbee-Combex-Marx struggled with high interest rates and an economic slowdown and it collapsed and was closed down by 1980.
Mary Chawner
Mary Chawner was a 19th century London silversmith. She was born in 1792 and died in 1870. She was born into a family of silversmiths. Her father, Thomas Chawner, was a silversmith and a member of the Worshipful Company of Goldsmiths. Her brother, John Chawner, was also a silversmith.
She began her apprenticeship as a silversmith in 1806 and completed her apprenticeship in 1812, and she was granted her freedom of the Worshipful Company of Goldsmiths in 1813. She was the first woman to be admitted to the company. In 1817, Chawner married John Randall who was also a silversmith, and a member of the Worshipful Company of Goldsmiths. The couple had two sons, Thomas and John.
Mary Chawner continued to work as a silversmith after her marriage. She was known for her high-quality work and her innovative designs. She was the first woman to be admitted to the Worshipful Company of Goldsmiths, and she was also the first woman to be granted a royal warrant as a silversmith in 1837. Her work is in the collections of many museums, including the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. She continued to work as a silversmith until her death in 1870.
Mary Gregory Glass
Mary Gregory glass refers to a type of decorative glassware that was popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Some say the glass is named after an English artist named Mary Gregory, who is believed to have originated the style, while other sources state that Mary Gregory was the name of a glass decorator at The Boston & Sandwich Glass Co. in the late 1800s.
Mary Gregory glass typically features clear or coloured glass, usually red, green or blue that is decorated with a white enamel painted scene, often depicting a child or children engaged in a playful activity, such as fishing or playing with a ball. The white enamel creates a stark contrast against the coloured glass background.
The technique used to create Mary Gregory glass involves applying the enamel to the surface of the glass and then firing it in a kiln to permanently fuse it to the glass. The result is a charming and whimsical piece of glassware that is highly collectible.
Mary Gregory Glass
Popular because of its attractive colours and naïve charm, 'Mary Gregory' glass, in popular belief originated from a lady by that name in America who painted scenes of children on ruby (cranberry), blue or green glass using a white enamel paint mixed with ground glass.
The painted scenes usually depict a child in an outdoor setting, playing with butterfly nets, hoops, or blowing bubbles, and often trees and foliage are framed to one side of the composition acting.
However it actually originated from glassworks in Bohemia, part of Czechoslovakia from 1918, and from 1993, part of the Czech Republic and was a major export commodity for the region in the mid and latter quarter of the 19th century.
Research has established that although there was a lady by the name of Mary Gregory (1856 - 1908) who worked for the Boston and Sandwich Glass Company in Cape Cod, Massachusetts she did not paint children, but landscapes including winter scenes.
Of the range of Mary Gregory decorated items produced, over 90% coming onto the market are vases in a multitude of shapes and sizes. Other items include jugs, glasses, jars, decanters and bowls, as well as many sets, such as jugs and decanters with matching glasses. Vases were often produced in pairs.
'Mary Gregory' glass was also produced in England and Italy in the 19th century, and because of its popularity, its manufacture is known to have been resumed at times in the 20th century, in at least the United States,
In terms of market pricing, the simple rule is the larger the piece the more expensive. Some vases on stands can stand over 85 cm tall. A premium is added if there is a suite of items, for example a pair of vases and a matching comport.
Mashman
Mashman Pottery was founded by the brothers William and Henry Mashman in the 1880's, together with James Sandison to form Mashman & Sandison Pottery at what is now Chatswood, a suburb of Sydney, NSW.
The company produced house bricks and a range of domestic pottery, and as the Mashman brothers had trained in England at Doulton Lambeth Pottery, there was a similarity of styles between Doulton and Mashman.
The brothers bought out the interest of James Sandison in 1892.
In 1908 the company was again split when Fredrick Albert Mashman, son of William left the employ of the Mashman Brother's family company to open his own pottery at Kingsgrove NSW, trading as Fred A. Mashman Pty. Ltd., making traditional terra cotta products for the restoration and new dwelling markets.
The Royal Doulton company took over Mashman in 1959, and continued making sanitary wares. The business passed to Caroma Industries Pty. Ltd. in 1980, but it ceased trading in 2000. A portion of the site of the former pottery was turned over to housing, and a large part converted into a public park.
Mason's Ironstone China
Mason's Patent Ironstone China was first produced in England in the early 19th century. The development of ironstone china was a significant technological innovation in the pottery industry, as it was much more durable and less expensive to produce than traditional porcelain.
The originator of the ironstone china formula is generally attributed to Charles James Mason, who had set up a pottery in Staffordshire in 1802. He patented the technique for producing ironstone china in 1813. The formula was a closely guarded secret, but it is believed to have included feldspar, china clay, and ironstone.
The Mason family began producing ironstone china under the name "Mason's Patent Ironstone China" at their pottery in Lane End, Staffordshire. The ironstone china was initially marketed as a less expensive alternative to porcelain, and it was particularly popular in the United States, where it was known as "White Granite" due to its durability and white color.
Mason's Patent Ironstone China was also known for its decorative designs, including transfer-printed patterns and hand-painted designs. Some of the most popular designs featured "Oriental" scenic landscapes, floral motifs, and historical scenes. As well as housewares the company produced fireplaces and large vases.
The Mason family continued to produce ironstone china until the mid-19th century when they sold their pottery to Francis Morley and Co. The Morley family continued to produce ironstone china under the Mason's name until the early 20th century, when the company merged with other pottery firms, including Geroge Ashworth & Bros. The Wedgwood Group has been producing Mason's Ironstone since 1973.
Masonic (freemasons)
The origins of the Masonic or Freemason movement are unclear, but it is generally believed to have evolved from medieval stonemason guilds in Europe. These guilds were responsible for building many of the great cathedrals and castles of the Middle Ages and had secret rituals and symbols.
In the early 1700s, these guilds began to admit non-stonemasons, and the first Grand Lodge of England was formed in 1717. Freemasonry quickly spread throughout Europe and the United States, with lodges being established in many major cities.
Freemasonry was heavily involved in the American Revolution, with many of the founding fathers, including George Washington and Benjamin Franklin, being Freemasons. Freemasonry also played a role in the French Revolution, and many of the leaders of the revolution were Freemasons.
In the 19th century, Freemasonry continued to grow and expand, with lodges being established in many countries around the world. Freemasonry also played a role in the development of new social and political movements, such as the anti-slavery movement and the labour movement.
In the 20th century, Freemasonry faced challenges from various groups that accused it of being a secret society with sinister motives. Despite these challenges, Freemasonry continues to exist today, with millions of members around the world. Freemasonry is often associated with charitable work and the promotion of moral and ethical values.
There are many types of Freemasonry objects that are collectable, including:
• Masonic Aprons - These are the most recognizable and collectible of all Masonic objects. Aprons have been worn by Masons since the earliest days of the organization, and they have a long history and many variations.
• Masonic Jewelry - Masonic rings, watches, cufflinks, and other types of jewelry are popular among collectors. These items often feature Masonic symbols, such as the square and compass.
• Masonic Medals and Badges - Medals and badges are often given to Masons in recognition of their service to the organization. These items can be very rare and collectible, especially if they are from a historic event or person.
• Masonic Books and Documents - Masonic books and documents can be very valuable and collectible, especially if they are rare or have historical significance. Many Masonic lodges have their own libraries and archives, which can be a great source of collectible items.
• Masonic Ceramics and Glassware - Masonic pottery, plates, cups, and other items have been produced for many years, and some of these items can be quite valuable.
• Masonic Artwork - Masonic art, including paintings, prints, and sculptures, can be very collectible, especially if they are by a famous artist or have a historical connection to the organization.
• Masonic Ritual Objects - Many Masonic lodges have unique ritual objects, such as gavels, trowels, and swords, that are used during Masonic ceremonies. These objects can be very collectible and often have intricate designs and decorations.
Massier Family
The Massier family is a dynasty of potters dating back to before the French Revolution. They played a key role in the revival of pottery in Vallauris, France, in the early 20th century. The founder of the modern Massier pottery business is Clément Massier (1844-1917). He began working with his father, Jacques, in 1856 and learned the craft of pottery from Gaetano Gandolfi, an Italian master potter who was hired by his father. Gandolfi inspired Clément Massier to experiment with new techniques, including iridescent lustre glazed pottery. This type of pottery, which is characterized by its shimmering, metallic sheen, became the hallmark of the Massier family business.
Clément Massier's two brothers, Delphin and Jérôme, also became potters. Together, the three brothers formed the core of the pottery industry in Vallauris. Clément Massier was a highly skilled potter and a gifted artist. He experimented with a wide range of shapes, colors, and glazes, and his work was influenced by a variety of artistic styles, including Art Nouveau, Art Deco, and Orientalism. Massier pottery was highly sought-after by collectors and decorators during the early 20th century. His work was featured in major exhibitions, including the Exposition Universelle in Paris in 1900.
After Clément Massier's death in 1917, his sons Jacques and Marcel continued the family business. They continued to produce high-quality pottery in a variety of styles, and their work helped to maintain the reputation of Vallauris as a center of pottery production. The Massier family pottery business remains in operation today and is now run by the sixth generation of Massiers. The family continues to produce pottery in a variety of styles, including traditional Massier lustre glazed pottery, as well as more contemporary designs.
Master Bowl
In a carnival glass tableware set, the term "master bowl" refers to the largest and most elaborate piece. Master bowls were often used as centerpieces and were the focal point of the collection. They were crafted in various shapes and designs, with intricate patterns and vibrant colors.
Matcham Skipper
Matcham Skipper (1921 – 2011) was a self-taught jeweller who lived and worked in Melbourne. He is best known for his figurative cast silver jewellery, often including large stones. Skipper was born in Melbourne in and grew up in Eltham, a suburb that was still rural at the time. His father was a radical writer and his mother was a painter. Skipper showed an early interest in art and crafts. He began making jewellery in 1945, using silver coins and other found objects. He gleaned information about jewellery making from books and trade journals, and from talking to other jewellers.
In 1958, Skipper had his first solo exhibition at the Brummel Gallery in South Yarra. The exhibition was a success, and Skipper quickly became one of the most sought-after jewellers of his generation. He was known for his unique style, which combined figurative elements with a modern sensibility. His work was often inspired by European mythology and folklore.
In 1968, Skipper was commissioned to create cufflinks for the Duke of Edinburgh. He drew on the theme of Icarus for the design, which featured two figures in flight. The cufflinks were a major coup for Skipper, and they helped to solidify his reputation as one of Australia's leading jewellers.
Skipper continued to work as a jeweller until his death in 2011. His work is held in major collections, including the National Gallery of Australia, the Powerhouse Museum, and the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences.
In addition to his work as a jeweller, Skipper was also a sculptor, a painter, and a writer. He was a complex and contradictory figure, but he was also a highly talented artist who made a significant contribution to Australian jewellery design.
Matchbox Toys
Matchbox Toys is a brand of die-cast toy vehicles that was first introduced in 1953 by the British company Lesney Products. Lesney Products was a British toy company that was founded in 1947 by Leslie Smith and Rodney Smith. The company's name is a combination of the first and last syllables of Leslie and Rodney's first names.
Initially, Lesney produced various small toys and games, but in the early 1950s, they began producing die-cast metal toy cars. These were initially marketed under the name "Matchbox" due to their small size, which made them perfect for fitting into a matchbox.
The first Matchbox car was the #1 Road Roller, which was released in 1953. This was followed by several other vehicles, including a dump truck, a cement mixer, and a fire engine. The company's attention to detail and use of realistic colours and designs made the Matchbox cars popular with children and collectors alike.
In the 1960s and 1970s, Lesney continued to expand its range of Matchbox cars, introducing new models and series such as the Superfast line, which featured cars with new, faster wheels. The company also produced a range of playsets that allowed children to create their own miniature towns and cities.
In the 1980s, Lesney faced financial difficulties and was eventually purchased by Universal Toys. The Matchbox brand continued to be produced, but the company faced stiff competition from other toy manufacturers, and sales declined. In 1997, the Matchbox brand was sold to Mattel, which still produces Matchbox cars and playsets. Despite its eventual decline, Lesney Products remains an important part of British toy history..
Mathieu Mategot
Mathieu Mategot (1910-2001) was a French mid-century furniture designer known for his innovative use of materials and his unique style. He was born in Paris in 1910 and studied at the École Nationale Supérieure des Arts Décoratifs. After graduating, he worked for several design firms before starting his own studio in 1945.
He was one of the first designers to use perforated sheet metal in furniture design. He also used other innovative materials, such as expanded metal, tubular steel, and plywood. His designs were often characterized by their simplicity, elegance, and functionality.
Some of Mategot's most famous designs include the Tripode table (1947), the Soucoupe chair (1952), and the Spaghetti chair (1952). The Tripode table is a simple, three-legged table made of perforated sheet metal. The Soucoupe chair is a rounded chair with a perforated seat and backrest. The Spaghetti chair is a lightweight chair made of tubular steel and perforated sheet metal.
Mategot's designs were very popular in the 1950s and 1960s. He was commissioned to design furniture for a variety of clients, including restaurants, hotels, and offices. He also designed furniture for the French government, including the French embassy in Washington, D.C.
Mategot's work has been exhibited in museums around the world, including the Museum of Modern Art in New York City and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. He received numerous awards for his work, including the Grand Prix National du Design in 1985.
Mats Jonasson
Mats Jonasson is a Swedish glass artist born in 1945. He is notable for his engraved lead crystal sculptures of flowers and wildlife that are manufactured by the glassworks in Maleras, Sweden and are marketed around the world. He began working at the Maleras glassworks in 1959 at the age of 14. He stayed with the company for six years, before moving to Kosta Boda in 1969. He returned to Maleras in 1975, and in 1988 he became the managing director and chief designer of the company.
His work is known for its intricate detail and use of color. He often uses traditional Swedish folk motifs in his designs, and his work has been exhibited in galleries and museums around the world. In addition to his work as a glass artist, Jonasson is also a writer and lecturer. He has written several books on glassmaking, and he gives lectures on his work at universities and art schools.
Jonasson is a recipient of the Prince Eugen Medal, the highest award for glass art in Sweden. He is also a member of the Royal Swedish Academy of Arts.
Jonasson's work is highly collectable, and his sculptures can sell for thousands of dollars. He is considered one of the most important glass artists working today.
Matsumoto Hozan
Matsumoto Hozan (1912 - 1981) was a Japanese potter known
for his distinctive style of celadon pottery. He was born in Kyoto, Japan, in
1912 and began studying pottery at the age of 14. By the time he was in his
twenties, he was already a well-respected potter. He was particularly
interested in celadon pottery, a type of pottery that is made from green-glazed
porcelain.
Hozan's celadon pottery is characterized by its simple,
elegant forms and its use of natural materials. He often used locally sourced
clay and glazes, and he was careful to avoid using any artificial colours or
decorations. His work is often compared to that of the Chinese celadon potters
of the Song dynasty, and it is considered to be some of the finest celadon
pottery ever produced.
Hozan was a prolific potter, and he produced a wide range of
celadon ware, including bowls, plates, teapots, and vases. He also experimented
with different techniques, and he is known for his innovative use of glazes. Hozan's
work is included in the collections of many major museums, including the
Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City and the Victoria and Albert Museum
in London.
Matted
For decorative purposes the centre exposed brass area of a dial clock was often matted. this practice, dating from the second half of the 17th century was produced by hammering the brass with a single or multi-pointed punch, by rolling the brass or by etching the brass with acid.
The process creates a fine granulated surface in which the light is refracted in different directions and so was more pleasing to the eye than the flat brass surface.
Matthew Boulton
Matthew Boulton (1728-1809) was an English industrialist and entrepreneur who was active during the 18th century. He was one of the key figures of the Industrial Revolution, and is best known for his work in manufacturing, particularly his partnership with James Watt in the development of the steam engine.
Boulton was born in Birmingham, England, and from an early age he was involved in the family business, manufacturing buttons and small metal goods. In the 1760s, he expanded his operations to include the production of silverware, buckles, and other metal products. He soon became known for his high-quality goods and his innovative manufacturing techniques.
He was a prolific producer of high-quality silverware and other metal products and was known for his innovative manufacturing techniques. Boulton's manufacturing output was diverse, covering a wide range of products, his factory was one of the largest of its kind in the 18th century, and he became one of the most important manufacturers of silverware and other metal products in Great Britain.
Boulton set up his own workshop to produce buttons and other small metal goods. He later moved on to make silverware, buckles, watch cases, and other metal products using new techniques and designs. He is credited with pioneering new methods of manufacturing, such as using a rolling press to make watch cases, and using electroplating to produce silver-plated goods, which allowed him to create a large volume of goods at a lower cost than traditional techniques.
His silverware and other metal products were highly sought after, and he supplied many of the leading retailers of the time. Boulton also produced special commission works, like presentation silverware and service of plate, even a silver musical clock. He was also known for his use of new manufacturing techniques, including the use of moulds and presses, which allowed him to produce goods more quickly and efficiently than traditional methods.
The contribution to the silverware industry by Boulton during his lifetime were significant, his skillful craftsmanship, innovative designs and advanced manufacturing techniques, helped to make him one of the leading manufacturers of silverware and other metal goods in Great Britain during the 18th century.
Mauboussin
The history of Mauboussin jewellery begins in 1827, when a Mr. Rocher opened a jewellery workshop in Paris, rue Greneta. In 1869, the workshop was taken over by Rocher's business partner, Jean-Baptiste Noury, who renamed it "Maison Noury". The firm participated in the Universal Exhibition in Paris in 1878 and won a bronze medal. In 1877, Jean-Baptiste Noury's nephew, Georges Mauboussin, joined the firm as an apprentice, but became a talented jeweller and in 1883, he took over the management of the workshops and then in 1903, he became the sole proprietor.
Under Mauboussin's leadership, the firm began to gain international recognition. In 1925, the company won a Grand Prize for jewellery at Paris's Decorative Arts Exhibition. This was a major coup, given the competition from other leading Parisian jewellers such as Cartier and Boucheron. The 1920s were a golden age for Mauboussin. The company's Art Deco style jewellery, which featured geometric shapes, clean lines, and bold colours was keenly sought, and Mauboussin also pioneered the use of new materials in jewellery, such as Bakelite and Lucite.
In 1946, the company moved to its current flagship store at 20 Place Vendôme, one of the most prestigious addresses in Paris, where Mauboussin continues to be a leading name in French jewellery today.
Mauchline Ware
Mauchline ware is the name given to small wooden items, produced in the town of Mauchline near Kilmarnock in Scotland from about the 1820s by the firm of W & A Smith and were originally decorated with hand painted and hand drawn designs such as tartan, landscape and Scottish scenes and ferns, and then after about 1850 with transfer prints, which were coated with clear varnish.
Most items were made from sycamore wood, which is a close grained pale coloured (almost white) timber in its unpolished state.
Its popularity increased after visitors to the Great Exhibition in 1851 had admired the Mauchline ware on display. Adding to the popularity of Mauchline ware, was the tourist market which was assisted by the building of railway lines to open up the country. The tourist wanted something small and easily transportable, as a memento of their holiday and named Mauchline ware souvenirs were produced for this market.
A variety of nick-nacks were made, including spectacle, needle and card cases; money, stamp, games and snuff boxes, egg timers, paper knives, napkin rings souvenir and Christmas ware.
By 1900 the market for Mauchline ware had began to decline and in the mid 1930s, the factory closed.
Maurice Lacroix
Maurice Lacroix was a Swiss watchmaker born on March 14, 1728, in the village of La Sagne, in the canton of Neuchâtel, Switzerland. He is known for his contribution to the development of the watchmaking industry in Switzerland during the 18th century.
Lacroix began his career as an apprentice to a watchmaker in La Chaux-de-Fonds, where he gained experience in designing and assembling watches. In 1750, he moved to Le Locle, where he started his own business as a watchmaker. Lacroix quickly gained a reputation for his high-quality watches, which were known for their precision and durability. He became one of the leading watchmakers in the region and was appointed as a master watchmaker in 1764.
In addition to his work as a watchmaker, Lacroix was also involved in the local community. He served as a member of the town council of Le Locle and was involved in various civic and charitable organizations. Lacroix died on February 22, 1799, at the age of 70.
His legacy lives on through the Maurice Lacroix brand, which was founded in 1975 by Desco von Schulthess, a Swiss businessman. The brand has become known for its high-quality watches, which are designed and manufactured in Switzerland.
Maurice Lacroix
Maurice Lacroix is a Swiss watchmaker founded in 1975 by Desco von Schulthess, a company that had been in the silk trade since 1889. Desco had also been a representative for luxury watches since 1946, and in the early 1960s they acquired an assembly facility in Saignelégier, Switzerland. This facility was used to produce private label watches for third parties. In 1975, Desco decided to launch their own watch brand, and they chose the name Maurice Lacroix. The name was chosen in honour of Maurice Lacroix, who was a former employee of Desco and a respected watchmaker.
The first Maurice Lacroix watches were produced in Saignelegier, and they were immediately successful. The watches were known for their high quality and their affordable prices. Maurice Lacroix quickly became one of the most popular watch brands in Switzerland, and they began to expand their distribution to other countries. In the 1980s, Maurice Lacroix began to produce more complicated watches, such as chronographs and tourbillons. They also began to experiment with new materials, such as titanium and carbon fiber. In the 1990s he company opened new subsidiaries in Europe and Asia, and they also began to produce watches for other brands, such as TAG Heuer and Zenith.
Max Dupain
Max Dupain (1911-1992) was Australia's most celebrated and influential photographer of the 20th century. He was born in Sydney, where he lived and worked all his life. He received his first camera as a gift at the age of 13, and began his professional career as a commercial photographer in the early 1930s.
Dupain was a master of black-and-white photography, and his work is known for its sharp focus, geometric compositions, and dramatic lighting. He photographed a wide range of subjects, including landscapes, architecture, industry, fashion, and people. He is perhaps best known for his iconic images of Australian beach culture, such as Sunbaker (1937) and Girl Standing on Beach (1938).
Dupain's work was also important in documenting Australia's changing social and cultural landscape in the postwar era. He photographed the construction of the Sydney Opera House, the growth of Australian industry, and the rise of the new middle class. He also photographed many of Australia's most prominent artists and intellectuals, including Dame Joan Sutherland, Sidney Nolan, and Patrick White.
Dupain's work has been exhibited extensively around the world, and is held in the collections of major museums such as the National Gallery of Australia, the Tate Modern, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. He was awarded the Order of Australia in 1987, and the Order of the British Empire in 1992.
Max Dupain passed away in 1992.
Max Handwerck
Max Handwerck was a German doll manufacturer who was active in the early 20th century. He was born in 1868 in Apolda, Thuringia, Germany. He began his career as a woodcarver, and later turned to doll making. He established his doll manufacturing company in Waltershausen, Germany, in the late 19th century.
Handwerck's dolls were known for their realistic facial features, finely painted details, and meticulously crafted bodies. The company produced a wide range of dolls, including bisque-headed dolls, character dolls, and baby dolls. Their dolls were often marked with the signature "Handwerck" on the back of the head or body. He used a variety of materials in his dolls, including bisque, composition, and papier-mâché. He also designed his own doll heads and bodies, and often used F & W Goebel heads on his composition dolls.
One of Handwerck's notable contributions was his collaboration with doll artist Simon & Halbig. Handwerck would purchase bisque doll heads from Simon & Halbig and then create the bodies and dress them, resulting in a successful partnership.
Handwerck's dolls were popular in Germany and other parts of Europe. He exhibited his dolls at the Leipzig Trade Fair, and his company also had a showroom in Berlin. Handwerck's dolls were also exported to the United States.
However, like many other doll manufacturers of the time, Handwerck faced challenges during World War I and the economic difficulties that followed. The company eventually ceased production in the 1920s. Handwerck died in 1925.
Max Le Verrier
Max Le Verrier (born Louis Octave Maxime Le Verrier; (1891 –1973) was a French sculptor of Belgian descent. He was a pioneer of the Parisian Art Deco movement, and is best known for his elegant figurines and lamps.
Le Verrier was born in Neuilly-sur-Seine, France, to a French father and a Belgian mother. His parents separated when he was a child, and he spent much of his time in boarding schools. At a young age, he developed an interest in art and sculpture, and began practicing his craft by carving small objects out of wood.
In 1909, Le Verrier moved to London to study art. However, his studies were interrupted by the outbreak of World War I. He enlisted in the French army and served as a pilot. In 1916, he was shot down by German fighter planes and captured. He spent the rest of the war in a prison camp in Münster, Germany, where he continued to create art objects out of clay.
After the war, Le Verrier attended the École Supérieure des Beaux-Arts in Geneva, Switzerland. He returned to Paris in 1919 and opened his own studio. He quickly gained a reputation for his elegant and stylish sculptures, which were often made of bronze.
In 1925, Le Verrier exhibited his work at the Exposition internationale des Arts décoratifs et industriels modernes in Paris. The exposition was a major showcase of Art Deco design, and Le Verrier's work was well-received. He won a gold medal for his sculpture "Gazelle."
Throughout the 1920s and 1930s, Le Verrier continued to produce sculptures in the Art Deco style. He also created a number of historical sculptures, including a bust of Louis XIV and a statue of Joan of Arc.
During World War II, Le Verrier fled to the south of France to escape the Nazi occupation of Paris. He returned to Paris after the war and continued to work until his death in 1973.
May Creeth
May Creeth (1869-1948) was an Australian artist and designer who is best known for her hand-painted jewellery and ceramics. She was born in Melbourne in 1869. She studied art at the National Gallery of Victoria Art School and the Melbourne School of Design. In 1898, she married Alfred Creeth, a fellow artist.
Creeth began her career as a painter, but she soon turned her attention to jewellery design. She was inspired by the Arts and Crafts movement, which emphasized the importance of craftsmanship and individuality. Her jewellery was often made from semi-precious stones and was decorated with intricate hand-painted designs. She also designed ceramics, including vases, bowls, and figurines.
Creeth's work was exhibited widely in Australia and overseas. She won several awards for her jewellery, including the first prize at the Melbourne International Exhibition in 1901. She was also a member of the Victorian Artists' Society and the Australian Pottery Circle.
Creeth continued to design and produce jewellery and ceramics until she passed away in 1948. Her work is now considered to be a significant contribution to Australian art and design.
Mazarin Blue
Mazarin blue, also known as bleu de Mazarin, is a shade of blue named after Cardinal Mazarin, a prominent French statesman and Catholic cardinal who lived in the 17th century. The color is a deep, rich blue with a hint of purple, and it was popular in France during the Baroque period.
Mazer Bowl
A mazer bowl is a type of drinking vessel that was popular in England during the medieval and Renaissance periods. They were usually made of wood, often carved from a single piece of maple, and was decorated with ornate designs and some were inlaid with precious metals such as silver or gold.
The bowls were often used for communal drinking, particularly for serving ale or mead, and were passed around among guests at feasts and gatherings. They were sometimes inscribed with a motto or the name of the owner, and were considered a symbol of hospitality and generosity.
Mazer bowls are rare and examples can be found in museums, such as the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, where there is a collection of mazer bowls dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries.
Mazzega
Mazzega is an Italian lighting manufacturer with a rich history in the production of mid-century lighting fixtures. The company was founded by Luigi Mazzega in Murano, Italy, in the early 20th century.
Murano, located near Venice, has a long-standing tradition of glassmaking dating back to the 13th century. It is renowned for its skilled glass artisans and the production of high-quality glass objects. Mazzega capitalized on this heritage and established itself as a prominent lighting manufacturer in the mid-20th century.
During the mid-century period, Mazzega gained international recognition for its innovative and artistic designs. The company collaborated with prominent Italian designers and architects, including Carlo Nason, Gino Sarfatti, and Angelo Mangiarotti, among others, to create unique lighting pieces that combined traditional glassmaking techniques with modern aesthetics.
Mazzega's mid-century lighting fixtures often featured blown glass elements, vibrant colors, and organic shapes. The company's designs ranged from delicate and intricate chandeliers to bold and sculptural floor lamps, wall sconces, and table lamps. Each piece was meticulously handcrafted by skilled Murano artisans, resulting in exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail.
The popularity of Mazzega's mid-century lighting fixtures grew throughout the 1950s and 1960s, attracting collectors, designers, and enthusiasts worldwide. Their creations became sought-after pieces, admired for their artistic value and contribution to the mid-century modern design movement.
However, like many other mid-century design manufacturers, Mazzega faced challenges in the late 20th century due to changing market preferences and increased competition. The company underwent various ownership changes and transformations over the years but managed to maintain its presence in the lighting industry.
Mazzega continues to produce lighting fixtures, combining traditional glassmaking techniques with contemporary design concepts and their mid-century lighting fixtures remain highly regarded and sought after by collectors and design enthusiasts.
Mcglashen, Royce / Cob Cottage Pottery (new Zealan
Cob Cottage Pottery, founded by Royce McGlashen, is a renowned pottery studio located in Nelson, New Zealand. Royce McGlashen was born in 1949 in Nelson, New Zealand and was educated at Waimea College. He developed an interest in pottery at a young age and began his formal training in ceramics at Nelson Polytechnic in the late 1960s. He began a five-year apprenticeship Waimea Pottery in 1966. In the early 1970s he moved to Australia where he worked at Montville Pottery in Queensland. In 1974, he travelled to South Africa and then on to England, working at Le Dieu Pottery in Norwich. He returned to New Zealand in 1975. In 1989, he began designing for Temuka Pottery. During this period, he learned the fundamentals of pottery, including wheel-throwing and hand-building techniques.
In the early 1970s, Royce McGlashen established Cob Cottage Pottery in Nelson. The name "Cob Cottage" reflects the use of traditional cob building techniques for his studio and workshop, which added a unique and rustic charm to the environment. This studio became the hub for his creative work in ceramics. McGlashen is known for his distinctive style, which often incorporates elements of nature and the New Zealand landscape into his ceramic creations. His work is characterized by earthy tones, textured surfaces, and organic forms, which are influenced by his surroundings and his interest in the natural world.
Over the years, Royce McGlashen's work gained widespread recognition, and he became one of New Zealand's most respected potters. In 1983 and 1987, McGlashen won Merit Awards at the Fletcher Brownbuilt Pottery Awards. In the 1989 New Year Honours, he was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire, for services to pottery. His pieces have been exhibited both nationally
Cob Cottage Pottery continues to operate as a thriving studio and a place where Royce McGlashen's artistic vision is realized
View further examples of Mcglashen, Royce / Cob Cottage Pottery (new Zealan
Mchugh's Pottery
Established in 1872 by Scotsman John McHugh at Sandhill near Launceston Tasmania, the business was primarily a pipe manufacturing business, as well as producing secondary lines in domestic and agricultural wares.
John McHugh died in in 1892 and the business was continued by his sons.
So far as collectors are concerned, the McHugh Pottery golden years are the 1930s, when several well known potters were employed, and the output of art pottery of the period is noted for its drip glazes in yellows, blues and pinks, known in the company as "fancy wares". Some of the wares of this period are dated.
McHugh ceased making art pottery in the mid 1940s but continued with its pipe making, domestic and agricultural wares, making it a takeover target in the 1950s for Humes Ltd., who were pipe manufacturers.
In 1988 Humes was acquired by the Smorgan groupand in 1990 Humes changed its name to to S.C.I Steel Ltd.
Mcp (modern Ceramic Products)
MCP (Modern Ceramic Products) commenced production in Redfern, Sydney in 1946. The company was founded by Tom and Jean Mingay, who had previously worked in the pottery industry in England.
The company produced a range of high-quality ceramic products, including vases, bowls, and figurines. The company was known for its innovative designs and use of new production techniques, such as slip-casting and the use of modern glazes. In the 1950s/early 1960s, MCP produced a large range of Disney cartoon figures under licence from Disney. Some were based on American designs, others were created by MCP. The pottery also produced a range of figurines, which were highly detailed and often featured animals and birds. These figurines were also very popular and are now considered highly collectible.
Despite its success, MCP Mingay closed its doors in 1957 due to increasing competition from imported ceramics and a lack of investment in new equipment.
Mdina Glass Ltd.
Mdina Glass Ltd. is a Maltese manufacturer of glassware, based in the former capital city of Mdina. The business was founded in 1968 by British citizens Michael Harris, a lecturer in industrial glass design at the Royal College of Art, and Eric Dobson, a former glassmaker at Whitefriars Glass in London.
Harris and Dobson were attracted to Malta by the government's incentives to attract new industry to the island, and by the potential for tourism. They set up their factory in a converted ex-RAF hangar, and soon began producing a range of glassware, including vases, bowls, paperweights, and figurines. Mdina Glass became popular with tourists, and its products were also exported to other countries. In the 1970s, the company expanded its range to include tableware, lighting, and other decorative items.
In 1985, Joseph Said, who had been one of Harris's first apprentices, took over ownership of Mdina Glass. Said introduced new techniques to the company, including lampworking and fusion, which allowed it to produce a wider range of products.
Mdina Glass employs around 50 people and remains one of Malta's leading exporters, its products being sold all over the world. The company and is still family-owned and operated.
Meakin Potteries
Founded in 1851 and located in Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, J. & G. Meakin was an English pottery manufacturing company that gained a reputation in the 19th century for producing large quantities of affordable ironstone china for both the domestic English market and export to Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the United States.
In the 1970s, the company introduced several new designs, including Liberty, Sterling, Trend, Classic, and Heirloom, which were marked with backstamp indications such as "permanent colors," "everlasting color," or "dishwasher proof." Many of these designs were influenced by earlier patterns, and J & G Meakin's close familial and corporate ties to Johnson Brothers and Alfred Meakin Ltd resulted in similarities between many of their respective patterns.
J. & G. Meakin acquired Midwinter Pottery in 1968 and was then taken over by the Wedgwood Group in 1970. Production under the Meakin name ceased in 2000, and Eagle Pottery, where the company had operated for many years, was used instead for the production of Johnson Bros pottery until its closure in 2004. Alfred Meakin Ltd, established in 1875, operated from the Royal Albert, Victoria, and Highgate Potteries in Tunstall, and was run by Alfred James Meakin, who succeeded his father, Alfred Meakin, after his death in 1904.
The Johnson family bought Alfred Meakin Ltd from Alfred John's uncle Robert Johnson in 1908, and the company remained under their ownership until 1976, when it became Myott-Meakin before being absorbed into the Churchill Group. Some Meakin production was relocated to the Alexander Works, constructed by Myott in 1902, around 1980.
Melton Modes of Nottingham purchased J. & G. Meakin in 1989, and the company underwent a management buyout in early 1991 before becoming part of the Churchill Group later that year.
Measham Pottery / Bargeware
Measham Pottery is known for producing a range of earthenware pottery products, including jugs, pitchers, and other tableware items. The company's products are often referred to as "bargeware," as they are designed for everyday use and are typically sold at affordable prices. Measham Pottery's bargeware products are hand-thrown and decorated with distinctive glazes, and are known for their traditional design and high quality. The company's bargeware range includes a variety of jugs, pitchers, and other tableware items, such as mugs, plates, and bowls.
Meat Covers
Meat covers, also known as dish covers, were designed for covering large platters in order to protect the food and retain the heat. They are usually ovel, matching the typical shape of tha platter, and vary in size from about 30 cm to 60 cm. They are topped by a reeded or foliate handle. While the surface of most are solid metal, there are examples where the outer surface is wholly or partly plated wire mesh.
The covers were made in silver, Sheffield plate and silver plate and earlier silver examples date from the mid 1700s. Due to the amount of silver they contain, and consequently their cost, and value if sold for melt, silver covers are vastly outnumbered by plated examples. Sheffield plated examples date from the early 1800s while plated covers are generally from the Victorian era.
Meccano
For those boys who grew up in the 1950s and 1960s, a Meccano set was the equivalent to today's Xbox or Nintendo.
Meccano Ltd was invented by Frank Hornby, a young clerk who worked for a meat importing company in Liverpool, after his idea in 1901 of a new toy - 'Mechanics Made Easy'. This very quickly became known as Meccano, and was soon on sale across the world.
'The Meccano Magazine' - a monthly newsletter - was introduced in 1916 and contained articles of interest to budding engineers. It included new plans for models which could be assembled with Meccano, often requiring the purchase of additional parts or a larger outfit.
At its peak The Meccano Magazine enjoyed a circulation of 50,000 and was published until 1980. Apart from development of new and modified components, Meccano underwent colour changes on many occasions - some of which reflected the mood of the time.
For example in 1936 it was produced in royal blue with gold cross-hatching to mark the coronation of King George VI following the abdication of his brother, Edward VIII; in 1939 with he impending World War, Meccano was produced in matt green similar to the colour of military vehicles then in common use.
By the end of the 1930's Meccano was being produced under license in France, Germany, Spain, and the USA.
The advent of television and then later, computers, made a serious dent in the popularity of Meccano (and many other practical hobbies) and Meccano ceased production at its Liverpool factory in 1979. The French producer of Meccano bought the worldwide rights, stepped up production and relaunched the company as Meccano SA.
Meccano is currently enjoying a worldwide resurgence of interest due, paradoxically, in large part to the computer and the internet. An internet search on the keyword 'Meccano' reveals a large number of web sites dedicated to the hobby and Meccano clubs are still found in many countries.
Medullary Rays
The medullary rays in timber are markings in the grain of ribbon form that extend through the tree and perpendicular to the growth rings. On oak they often display as a lighter coloured narrow ribbon, compared with the surrounding timber.
Meerschaum Pipes
Meerschaum is the mineral from which meerschaum pipes are made. It is found primarily in Turkey, where it has been mined for centuries. The mineral is soft and pliable when it is first extracted from the ground, which makes it ideal for carving. Meerschaum pipes first became popular in the 18th century, when they were introduced to Europe by Turkish traders.
Meerschaum pipes quickly became popular with smokers in Europe, particularly in Austria and Hungary. The pipes were prized for their cool, dry smoke and their unique, intricate designs. Meerschaum is also a natural filter, which helped to remove impurities from the smoke.
During the 19th century, meerschaum pipes became a symbol of wealth and status, and were often decorated with intricate carvings and ornate designs. Many of the most elaborate pipes were commissioned by wealthy collectors, and some were even exhibited at world's fairs and other public events.
Meerschaum pipes are still popular among pipe smokers, particularly those who appreciate the intricate designs and high level of craftsmanship that goes into making each pipe. Meerschaum is still primarily mined in Turkey, and many pipes are still hand-carved by skilled artisans. Some collectors prize vintage meerschaum pipes, particularly those that are intricately carved or have historical significance.
Meigh Pottery
Meigh Pottery, also known as Old Hall Pottery, was a British pottery company that was established in 1790 by Job Meigh and his son Charles Meigh. Meigh Pottery was run successfully by Charles Meigh from 1834 when he took over from his father, Job.
Job Meigh worked out of Old Hall Pottery, Hanley, Staffordshire from 1805, producing high quality stoneware and earthenware. Charles continued this business. His most well known and popular works were white stoneware jugs with relief decoration of Gothic Revival motifs.
The designs were formed as part of the mould before pieces were cast. The ‘Minster’ jug was a key design, sometimes referred to as a ‘Minster Jug’ or ‘York Minster’ although the religious design has no known association with York Minster.
Religious scenes were common in Meigh’s work, as were sporting events and drinking activities. Larger examples are sought after by collectors, realising higher prices.
Charles Meigh was greatly admired for his high quality designs and intricate moulded work, with his factories acknowledged for casting crisp three-dimensional designs few could rival. He exhibited two stoneware gilt vases painted with Royal portraits and views of Crystal Palace at the Great Exhibition of 1851 and in 1886 won a medal.
Meiping Vase
A Chinese meiping vase is a type of ceramic vase that were produced in China. from the Song Dynsasty (960-1279AD) onward. Meiping translates as "plum vase" from Chinese, and refers to the shape of the vase, which has a narrow base that gradually widens towards the shoulder before tapering towards the neck.
Typically made of porcelain or stoneware, Meiping vases were decorated with a variety of motifs and designs, including floral patterns, landscapes, and calligraphy. The vases were often glazed in vibrant colors such as blue, green, and red, and were sometimes embellished with gold or silver leaf.
Meiping vases intended to hold a single branch of plum blossoms, which were associated with the arrival of spring and the renewal of life.
Meissen Porcelain
Meissen porcelain was first produced in the town of Meissen, Germany, in the early 18th century. It is widely regarded as one of the finest examples of European porcelain and has a long and fascinating history.
The story of Meissen porcelain begins in 1708, when the ruler of Saxony, Augustus the Strong, ordered the establishment of a porcelain factory in the town of Meissen. The factory was founded by a group of artisans led by Johann Friedrich Bottger, who had been searching for a way to make true porcelain for many years while trying to make heat resistant crucibles for goldmaking. Bottger had been imprisoned by Augustus for failing to deliver on a promise to produce gold from base metals. He was eventually released and put to work on the gold project.
For nearly six years, Böttger experimented desperately. Although unable to produce gold, he did manage to make another important breakthrough-the recipe for "true" or hard-paste porcelain that was of exceptional quality. Meissen porcelain quickly became very popular among the wealthy and powerful, and the factory grew rapidly.
Over the years, Meissen porcelain became known for its distinctive style, which featured intricate designs, delicate shapes, and bright colours. The factory also pioneered many new techniques and processes for making porcelain, including the use of moulds, the production of figurines, and the development of a wide range of glazes.
During the 18th and 19th centuries, Meissen porcelain became one of the most important luxury goods produced in Europe, and the factory was widely regarded as the leader in the field. Meissen porcelain was used to create everything from tableware and decorative objects to large-scale sculptures and architectural elements.
Meissen porcelain remains highly sought after by collectors and connoisseurs of fine art and design. The porcelain is still produced using traditional techniques and materials, and many of the classic designs from the past continue to be popular today.
Melbourne Chair Company
The Melbourne Chair Company made wooden cottage chairs, with spindle backs, featuring Australian motifs pressed into the top rail. The three most common designs were: the kangaroo back with banksia flowers (registered number 252), the emu back with ferns and gum flowers (registered number 253), the lyrebird back with ferns and the Sturt desert pea (registered number 254). There is a fourth design featuring the Australian coat of arms, but this is very scarce.
The Melbourne Chair Company, operating under the trade name Melchair Pty Ltd was trading until the mid 1980s but closed a short period after a fire destroyed the factory.
The so-called Federation chairs were made from about 1906 until the 1930s, although reproductions are now on the market, including carver and high chairs. Some of the original machines in fact are still in use, but the dies used to press the famous backs have been replaced.
Tasmanian blackwood was used for the turned legs and spindles, the seats were usually of kauri pine, sometimes saddled, sometimes caned, and the backs were pressed from hoop pine. When finished, the chairs were dipped in varnish. Essentially based on the American mass production techniques, Federation chairs have become sought after by most collectors of Australiana.
Melbourne Cricket Club (mcc)
The Melbourne Cricket Club (MCC) is one of the oldest and most prestigious sporting clubs in Australia. It was founded in 1838, just three years after the city of Melbourne was established.
The MCC's initial focus was on cricket, and it played its first match in 1844. The club soon became the custodian of the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), which was established in 1853. The MCG is now one of the most iconic sporting venues in the world and has hosted numerous significant sporting events, including the 1956 Olympic Games, the 2006 Commonwealth Games, and numerous Cricket World Cup and AFL Grand Finals.
Over the years, the MCC has expanded its reach beyond cricket to encompass other sports. It has been involved in the development of several other sporting facilities, including the Melbourne Park tennis complex and the National Sports Museum.
The MCC has a proud history of inclusivity, being one of the first clubs to open its doors to women and people of all races and religions. It has also been a strong advocate for the promotion of fair play and sportsmanship in all sports.
Today, the MCC is still a vibrant and active sporting club, with a membership of around 120,000 people. It continues to play a leading role in Australian sport and is a major contributor to the cultural and sporting life of Melbourne.
Melbourne Cup
The Melbourne Cup is one of Australia's most prestigious horse racing events and is considered one of the most famous races in the world. It is a two-mile (3,200 meters) handicap race for three-year-olds and older, held annually on the first Tuesday in November at the Flemington Racecourse in Melbourne, Victoria.
The first Melbourne Cup was held on Thursday, 7 November 1861, and was won by a horse named Archer, ridden by jockey John Cutts. Archer went on to win the following year's race as well, becoming the first horse to win the Melbourne Cup twice.
The Melbourne Cup was the brainchild of businessman Frederick Standish and his brother-in-law, Robert Bagot. They wanted to create a horse race that would rival the prestigious English races such as the Derby and the Oaks. They were successful, and the Melbourne Cup quickly became the premier horse race in Australia.
The Cup's popularity grew over the years, and in 1875, the race was moved to its current location at Flemington Racecourse. The famous three-handled trophy, known as the Melbourne Cup, was first awarded in 1919 and has become an iconic symbol of the race.
The Melbourne Cup has a long-standing tradition of attracting international entries, with horses from around the world competing in the event. In 1993, the Cup's international profile was further enhanced when Dermot Weld trained Irish horse Vintage Crop to become the first international horse to win the race.
The Melbourne Cup has also been associated with fashion, with the race becoming a showcase for the latest trends in dress and style. The tradition of wearing hats to the Melbourne Cup dates back to the early 1900s, and today, the event is considered as much a fashion event as it is a horse race.
Memorabilia is associated with the Melbourne Cup includes the Melbourne Cup trophy, the most sought-after prize in Australian horse racing. It is a 18-carat gold cup that stands about 74 cm high and weighs around 4 kg. Other memorabilia includes the race book, pins and badges, posters, photographs and art works.
Melrose Australian Ware
About 1932 the Hoffman Brick Company in Melbourne expanded its interests and took over a small art-pottery and began to market a range of commercial art-pottery that employed Australian floral and faunal motifs.
This ware was called ‘Mel-rose Australian Ware' and although moulded and thus capable of being economically mass-produced it had some of the qualities of more expensive handmade pottery. Usually coloured green, a fresh clean colour that enjoyed a lasting vogue in the 1930s after the drab browns and ochres of the Depression, some examples exist which have white, pink, grey blue or other coloured glazes. Gum leaves are the usual motif employed on Mel-rose Australian Ware. Possums, kangaroos, koalas and fish are some of the animals employed as decorative motifs on bowls jugs, vases and bookends.
Mel-rose Australian Ware continued in production until about 1940, when the escalation of war efforts and privation made the production of goods impossible.
Melrose Ware Pottery
Melrose Ware pottery was produced by the Hoffman Brick and Tile Company, which was founded in 1862 in the Melbourne suburb of Brunswick. The company was originally a brick and tile manufacturer, but it began producing pottery in the 1930s during the Great Depression.
Melrose Ware pottery was strongly influenced by the Arts and Crafts movement, which emphasized the value of traditional craftsmanship and the beauty of handcrafted objects. This movement was characterized by a departure from mass production and a return to skilled artisanal work.
They produced a range of pottery items, including vases, jugs, bowls, and tiles and the pottery was known for its distinctive blue and green glazes and its Australiana motifs, which often featured gum leaves, gum nuts, and other native flora and fauna. The pottery was crafted using various techniques, including hand-painting, sgraffito (a technique where designs are incised into the clay surface), and slip trailing (applying liquid clay to create raised designs). These items were sought after for their artistic value and unique aesthetic. The pottery was popular with both Australian and international buyers, and it helped to keep the Hoffman Brick and Tile Company afloat during the Depression.
Melrose Ware pottery was produced from 1931 to 1942. After World War II, the Hoffman Brick and Tile Company shifted its focus back to brick and tile production, and the pottery was discontinued.
Memento Mori
A memento mori is an artistic or symbolic reminder of mortality. Literally translated from the Latin it reads: "remember that you will die". They are found in art, architecture, horology, music and jewellery.
Memento Mori
A memento mori is an object or image that serves as a reminder of mortality and the inevitability of death. The phrase "memento mori" is Latin for "remember that you will die."
Memento mori can take many forms, including paintings, sculptures, jewelry, and other decorative objects. They often include symbols of death or decay, such as skulls, skeletons, hourglasses, or wilting flowers, as well as inscriptions or messages reminding the viewer of the transience of life.
Memento mori have been used throughout history as a way of contemplating the nature of existence and the importance of living in the present. In some cultures, they were also used as a reminder of religious teachings, such as the Christian belief in the afterlife.
During the Renaissance, memento mori became a popular theme in art and literature, reflecting the renewed interest in classical philosophy and the humanist emphasis on the importance of individual agency and moral responsibility.
Today, memento mori continue to be appreciated as a powerful symbol of the fragility and impermanence of life, and are often used in contemporary art and design to convey a sense of introspection and reflection.
Memphis Group
The Memphis Group, a design collaborative, was founded in Milan on the initiative of designer and architect Ettore Sottsass (1917 - 2007), in December 1980.
The group derived its name from the Bob Dylan song 'Stuck Inside of Mobile with the Memphis Blues Again', said to be playing at their inaugural meeting.
As well as Ettore Sottsass, its members included Michele de Lucchi, Barbara Radice, Nathalie du Pasquier, Marco Zanini and Martine Bedin.
The group's work was shown for the first time at the Milan Furniture Fair in September 1981 and after that exhibitions were held annually until 1988, although the designs were not universally admired.
Memphis group designers used new materials, particularly patterned laminated plastics, to achieve brightly-coloured and often kitsch effects and the group dominated Italian avant-garde design throughout the 1980s.
Most pieces are marked, and some also bear the designer's name and the date and place of manufacture.
Mennecy Porcelain Factory
During its early years, the Mennecy factory faced stiff competition from other porcelain manufacturers in France, such as the factories in Sèvres and Vincennes. However, Mennecy porcelain became known for its unique style and quality, which helped it to remain popular with collectors and art lovers.
The factory continued to produce porcelain objects throughout the 18th century, but it faced financial difficulties in the late 1700s and was eventually forced to close in 1806.
Mercator
Gerard Mercator (1512-1594) was a Flemish cartographer, geographer, and mathematician who is best known for his pioneering work in the field of cartography. He is widely regarded as one of the most important figures in the history of cartography and is particularly famous for his creation of the first modern atlas, which was published in 1595, a year after his death.
Mercator was born in Rupelmonde, Flanders (now part of Belgium), in 1512. He was educated at a local school, and then went on to study mathematics, geography, and cartography at the University of Leuven. He also studied under Gemma Frisius, a prominent mathematician and cartographer of the time.
In 1537, Mercator began working as a cartographer, and over the next few years, he produced a number of maps and atlases for clients throughout Europe. He became known for his innovative approach to map-making, which involved using a new projection method that allowed for more accurate representation of the earth's surface.
In the mid-1550s, Mercator moved to Duisburg, in present-day Germany, where he established a workshop and continued to produce maps and atlases. He also taught mathematics and cartography at the local university. In 1569, he published his most famous work, the "Mercator Projection," a world map that revolutionized the field of cartography by allowing for accurate navigation at sea.
In addition to his work as a cartographer, Mercator was also involved in other areas of science and philosophy. He was a member of the Royal Society of London, and he corresponded with many of the leading scientists and intellectuals of his day. He was particularly interested in theology, and he wrote extensively on biblical geography and history.
Mercator died in Duisburg in 1594, at the age of 82. His legacy as one of the most important figures in the history of cartography continues to this day, and his innovative techniques and methods are still studied and used by cartographers around the world.
Merilyn Wiseman
New Zealand potter Merilyn Wiseman (1941-2019) completed her Preliminary Diploma at the Elam School of Art in Auckland in 1959 and went on to obtain a National Diploma in design from Goldsmiths School of Art in London in 1963, followed by an Art Specialist Teachers Diploma the subsequent year. Wiseman embarked on her professional journey as a ceramicist in the mid-1970s, driven by her fascination with clay, which was kindled during a working holiday at a small pottery in Ireland. Upon returning to New Zealand, she constructed a wood-fired kiln near Albany in 1976.
Initially influenced by the prevalent interest in Japanese ceramics in New Zealand during that period, Merilyn Wiseman swiftly developed her distinct artistic style. Her later creations were characterized by organic, alluring forms inspired by nature, complemented by an array of colours she meticulously blended in her glazes to suit her artistic vision.
Wiseman's remarkable contributions were acknowledged through various honours and awards. In 2002, her exceptional work titled "Pacific Rim" was featured in the 'Art Meets Craft' stamp collection, a special collaboration between New Zealand Post and Sweden Post. Additionally, she received the prestigious Arts Foundation of New Zealand Laureate Award in 2007. Further accolades include the Premier Award at the Fletcher Challenge Pottery Awards in 1984 and the Premier Award at the Portage Ceramic Awards in 2005. The QEII Arts Council also acknowledged her talents by granting her three creative development grants.
Merilyn Wiseman's artistic legacy is preserved in esteemed institutions such as the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, the Christchurch Art Gallery, The Dowse Art Museum, Auckland War Memorial Museum, Canterbury Museum, and Taipei Fine Arts Museum.
Merrythought Toys
Merrythought is a British toy company that was founded in 1930 in the town of Ironbridge in Shropshire, England by Gordon Holmes and G. H. Laxton. The company initially produced a variety of toys, including teddy bears, dolls, and other plush toys, but it quickly became known for its high-quality teddy bears.
One of the reasons for Merrythought's success is its commitment to traditional techniques and materials. The company uses high-quality materials, such as mohair and alpaca, to create its teddy bears, and each bear is hand-stitched and stuffed by skilled artisans. Over the years, Merrythought has produced a variety of different teddy bear designs, each with its own unique personality and style. Two of the best known teddys are Bingie bear and Cheeky bear. The company has also collaborated with a number of other brands and designers to create limited-edition and collectible teddy bears.
Merrythought is still a family-run company, and it continues to produce high-quality, hand-made teddy bears and other toys. The company's commitment to traditional techniques and materials has helped it to remain one of the most respected and well-known toy makers in the world, and its teddy bears are beloved by collectors and children alike.
Metamorphic Furniture
An item of furniture, that can be transformed from its apparent purpose to a different purpose. The most common examples are the library chair that can be folded into a set of library steps, and the side table that transforms into a multi-tiered dumb waiter through a series of ropes, pulleys and weights.
Metronome
A metronome is a device used to help musicians keep time while playing music. It produces a steady, regular pulse, typically in the form of an audible click or beep, that can be set to a specific tempo, or speed of the music.
Metronomes can be mechanical, using a pendulum to produce the regular pulse, or electronic, using a quartz crystal oscillator or other means to generate the sound.
Prior to the invention of the personal computer and later electronic devices, Metronomes were mechanical standalone clockwork devices, but now can be found in various forms, including smartphone apps, and computer software.
Musicians use metronomes to improve their timing and rhythmic accuracy, and to ensure that they are playing at a consistent tempo. They can be especially useful for practicing difficult passages or for ensemble playing, where multiple musicians need to stay in sync with each other.
Mettlach Pottery
Mettlach Pottery is a German ceramics company that was founded in 1848 and is known for its high-quality stoneware and porcelain products. The company was established by the Villeroy & Boch family, which had a long history of producing ceramics, and it quickly became one of the most respected and well-known ceramics companies in Europe.
One of the reasons for Mettlach's success was its innovative use of technology. The company was one of the first ceramics companies to use steam power in its production processes, which allowed it to produce large quantities of high-quality ceramics at a low cost. Mettlach also invested heavily in research and development, and it was one of the first ceramics companies to produce fine porcelain products.
In addition to its technological innovations, Mettlach was also known for its beautiful and intricate designs. The company worked with a number of talented artists and designers, including the famous ceramist Ludwig Jacoby, to create a wide range of beautiful and decorative ceramics products, including vases, plates, steins, and more.
Despite its long history, Mettlach is no longer in production, and the company's original factory in Mettlach, Germany is now a museum dedicated to the history of the company and its products. However, the legacy of Mettlach Pottery lives on, and its beautiful and intricate ceramics products continue to be admired and valued by collectors and enthusiasts around the world.
Mettoy Co. Ltd.
The Mettoy Co. Ltd was a British toy company that was founded in 1933 by Philipp Ullmann, a Jewish businessman who had fled Nazi Germany. The company was originally based in Northampton, England, and specialized in the production of die-cast toys, such as model cars and trucks.
In the 1940s, Mettoy began producing a line of toy cap guns, which became very popular with children in the UK and around the world. The company also expanded its range of die-cast toys, introducing new models of cars, trucks, and other vehicles.
During the 1950s and 1960s, Mettoy continued to grow and expand its product line, becoming one of the largest toy manufacturers in the UK. In 1953, the company introduced a new line of die-cast vehicles, which were marketed under the name "Corgi". These toys were highly detailed and featured moving parts and other realistic features, and they became very popular with children and collectors alike.
In the 1970s, Mettoy faced increasing competition from other toy companies, and the company struggled to maintain its market share. In 1983, the company was acquired by the Hong Kong-based firm Playcraft Toys, and the Mettoy name was phased out.
Mettoy is remembered as one of the most innovative and successful toy makers in British history, and its products are highly collectible among toy enthusiasts. The company's Corgi range of toys are particularly sought after, and many collectors consider them to be among the finest die-cast toys ever produced.
Michael Cardew
Michael Cardew (1901 –1983) was an English studio potter and teacher who was an important figure in the studio pottery movement. Cardew was known for his large, hand-thrown, salt-glazed stoneware ceramics, which were heavily influenced by the traditional pottery of Africa and Asia, and for his influence on the next generation of potters.
Cardew studied at the Royal College of Art in London and later worked as an apprentice to the potter Bernard Leach, who was a major influence on him. After traveling and working in Africa and Asia, Cardew established a pottery studio in Winchcombe, Gloucestershire in 1929. He later moved to St. Ives, Cornwall, where he worked for several years.
He is credited with inspiring a whole generation of young potters in the UK and many of his students went on to become respected potters in their own right. Cardew's work is widely admired and continues to be collected and studied by ceramic enthusiasts. He is considered one of the most important figures in the studio pottery movement, and his contributions to the field of ceramics continue to be recognized today.
Michael Hirst
Michael Hirst was born in 1917, and set up a small furniture factory in the Melbourne suburb of Hawthorn and was active as designer and manufacturer from 1955-1983 trading as Michael Hirst P/L, Michael Hirst Furniture and/or "H-Line".
His furniture was sold through Melbourne retailers such as Andersons and Georges and also through interior decorators. He exhibited his designs at Gallery A, Melbourne.
He began designing in collaboration with Clement Meadmore in 1955.
Michael Hirst passed away in 2002 and was inducted posthumously into the Design Institute of Australia in 2017
Michael Kors
Michael Kors is an American fashion designer known for his line of luxury clothing and dressing accessories for both men and women. Kors was born in Long Island, New York in 1959 and began his career in fashion at the age of 19, when he enrolled in the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City.
After studying at FIT, Kors started his own label in 1981, which focused on women's clothing and accessories. His designs quickly gained a following among fashion editors and celebrities, and by the mid-1980s, Kors had established himself as one of the leading American designers of his generation.
In the 1990s, Kors expanded his brand to include men's clothing and accessories, as well as a line of fragrances. He also became known for his appearances as a judge on the hit television show "Project Runway," which helped to further raise his profile and introduce his designs to a wider audience.
Michael Kors is now a global fashion brand with a wide range of products, including clothing, handbags, shoes, watches, and jewellery. The company operates stores in over 100 countries around the world, and its products are sold in many of the world's top department stores and specialty boutiques.
Throughout his career, Kors has won numerous awards and accolades for his work, including several Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) awards, which are among the most prestigious honors in the fashion industry. He is also known for his philanthropic work, including his support for various charities focused on ending hunger and supporting children's health and education.
Michael Powolny
Michael Powolny, (1874-1954), stands as a towering figure in the realm of contemporary ceramics, glass and sculpture. His art transcends the boundaries of mere functionality, transforming clay into mesmerizing sculptures that play with light and shadow, texture and form.
Powolny's artistic journey began at the renowned Vienna School of Applied Arts, where he nurtured his passion for ceramics under the tutelage of master ceramist Kurt Ohnsorg. It was here that he developed his signature approach, characterized by bold geometric shapes, innovative glazing techniques, and an unparalleled attention to detail.
After graduating, Powolny set up his own studio in Vienna, embarking on a prolific career marked by exhibitions across Europe and beyond. His pieces, often large in scale and captivating in their stark simplicity, garnered widespread acclaim for their unique blend of avant-garde experimentation and traditional craftsmanship.
He also ventured into the fascinating world of glass art, demonstrating his versatility and dedication to artistic experimentation. glass pieces echoed the themes and techniques present in his ceramics. He embraced bold geometric forms, captivating textures, and his signature interplay of light and shadow. In glass, he found a new medium to translate his artistic vision, exploring its unique ability to capture and refract light, creating ethereal sculptures that seem to glow from within.
Michael Pugh
Michael Pugh is a self-taught Australian potter who has been creating beautiful and distinctive pottery for over 40 years. He is based in Buderim, Queensland, on the Sunshine Coast.
Australian potter Michael Pugh was born in Sydney in 1948 and began his career in advertising. He later moved to London, where he continued to work in advertising before becoming interested in pottery. In 1970, he and his wife moved to Buderim, Queensland where they set up a pottery studio. Pugh is a self-taught potter and has learned his skills through experimentation and practice. He is known for his wood-fired ceramics, which are often inspired by the natural world. He creates a wide range of pottery, including tableware, one-off pots, blossom jars, lamp bases, tiles, platters, handmade basins, and big bowls. His work is often characterized by its vibrant colours and bold designs.
Pugh has exhibited his work extensively throughout Australia and internationally. He has also been featured in numerous publications, including Vogue Living, Australian House & Garden, and Pottery in Australia. In addition to his own work, Pugh is also a teacher of pottery to people of all ages and skill levels. He is also a member of the Australian Potters' Society and the Sunshine Coast Potters' Association.
In 2008, Pugh was invited to join the Khmer Ceramic Revival Conference in Siem Reap and visited the Angkor Temple complex. This experience had a profound impact on his work and he has since incorporated many Cambodian influences into his pottery.
Pugh is a passionate advocate for the use of sustainable materials and practices in pottery and sources his clays locally and uses wood-fired kilns, which are more environmentally friendly than gas or electric kilns.
Michel Aroutcheff
Michel Aroutcheff was a talented French artisan known for his craftsmanship in creating limited edition model motor vehicles. Born in 1929, he began his career as a cabinetmaker, specializing in creating wooden models of cars, motorcycles, and other vehicles. Aroutcheff gained recognition for his exceptional attention to detail and the high quality of his work.
In the 1960s and 1970s, Aroutcheff collaborated with several publishers, including the famous Belgian comic book artist Hergé. Together, they produced limited edition wooden models based on vehicles from Hergé's iconic series "The Adventures of Tintin." These models were meticulously crafted and highly sought after by collectors.
Aroutcheff's craftsmanship extended beyond Tintin vehicles, and he created a variety of wooden models inspired by classic cars, motorcycles, and even fictional vehicles. Each piece was carefully handcrafted, and Aroutcheff was known for using high-quality materials to ensure the authenticity and durability of his creations.
The limited edition nature of Aroutcheff's models added to their appeal, making them coveted items among collectors. The intricate details and craftsmanship showcased in each piece reflected Aroutcheff's passion for both woodworking and automobiles.
Michel Aroutcheff passed away in 2006, but his legacy lives on through the continued appreciation of his meticulously crafted model motor vehicles.
Michel Ducaroy
Michel Ducaroy, born on June 16, 1925, in Paris, France, was a renowned French furniture designer best known for his iconic work with the furniture company Ligne Roset. Ducaroy's designs were influential in the mid-20th century and continue to be celebrated for their innovative and functional qualities.
Ducaroy began his career in the field of design after studying at the École Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-Arts in Paris. In the early 1960s, he joined Ligne Roset, a family-owned furniture company founded in 1860. It was during his time at Ligne Roset that Ducaroy truly made his mark on the world of furniture design.
One of his most famous creations is the Togo sofa, introduced in 1973. The Togo sofa is characterized by its distinctive, ergonomic design and low-slung profile. It became an instant classic and is still highly sought after today. The use of high-quality materials and the modular design of the Togo sofa reflected Ducaroy's commitment to both comfort and style.
Ducaroy continued to contribute to the world of design until he passed away on March 29, 2009.
Michele De Lucchi
Michele De Lucchi is an Italian architect and designer who has been at the forefront of progressive design for more than four decades. De Lucchi was born in Ferrara, Italy, in 1951. He studied architecture at the University of Florence and graduated in 1975. In the early 1980s, he joined the Memphis Group, a radical design collective that rejected the clean lines and functionalism of modernism in favor of expressive and colorful designs. De Lucchi left the Memphis Group in 1986, but his work has continued to reflect the group's playful and irreverent spirit.
De Lucchi has designed a wide range of products, including furniture, lighting, appliances, and office equipment. He has also worked on a number of architectural projects, including the renovation of the Triennale di Milano, the design of the new headquarters for the Olivetti company, and the creation of the Officina Italia design collective.
His work has been exhibited in museums and galleries around the world. He has won numerous awards for his design work, including the Compasso d'Oro, the highest honor in Italian design. He is a member of the Royal Institute of British Architects and the American Institute of Architects. He is a passionate advocate for design as a tool for social change. He believes that design can be used to improve people's lives and make the world a better place. He is committed to using his work to promote sustainability, social responsibility, and environmental awareness.
Some of Michele De Lucchi's most notable works include the Tolomeo lamp, designed in 1987 and is still in production; the Nuvola sofa, designed in 1992 and is made from upholstered foam. It is praised for its comfortable design and its ability to be configured in a variety of ways and the Expo 2015 Italian Pavilion designed for the 2015 World's Fair in Milan.
Micro Models
Micro Models was a brand name of Australian company Goodwood (Aust.) Pty. Ltd. that manufactured toys and models. The company was founded in 1952 by John Goodchild and his wife, Joyce. Goodchild was a former aircraft engineer who had a passion for model making. He saw an opportunity to create a business that would produce high-quality models that were affordable for children.
Micro Models' first product was a model of a Spitfire fighter plane. The model was made of plastic and was very detailed. It was an instant success and helped to establish the company as a leading manufacturer of model kits. Micro Models went on to produce a wide range of model kits, including cars, trucks, buses, trains, and airplanes. The company also produced a line of plastic soldiers and other military figures.
Micro Models products were popular in the 1950s. They were well-made and affordable, and they appealed to a wide range of children. However, the company faced increasing competition from overseas manufacturers and Micro Models was eventually forced to close in 1961. Despite its relatively short lifespan, The company's products are still popular with collectors today, and they provide a fascinating glimpse into the world of 1950.
Micro Pet
Micro Pet was a line of die-cast miniature cars produced by the Taiseiya Toy Company in Japan in the 1960s. These were small-scale, battery-operated model cars designed to replicate real vehicles. Micro Pet series featured a diverse range of models, including cars, trucks, and other types of vehicles and were known for their high quality and realistic detail.
They aimed to replicate popular vehicles from that era, and their designs often reflected the styles and trends of the time. and they were popular with collectors and enthusiasts alike. These model cars were known for their battery-operated features, such as lights, sounds, and movement. They were often equipped with a simple mechanism that allowed them to move forward, backward, or turn with the push of a button.
The Taiseiya Toy Company was founded in 1946 by Yoshiaki Taise. The company initially produced a variety of toys, including dolls, trains, and airplanes. In the early 1960s, Taiseiya began producing die-cast miniature cars, and the Micro Pet line was launched in 1963. Like many toy manufacturers, Taiseiya faced challenges as the toy industry evolved. The company eventually ceased production in the late 1960s, but their legacy lives on through the vintage toys they created, including the Micro Pet model cars.
Micromosaic Jewellery
The fashion for micromosaic jewellery centred on Rome and Florence, encouraged by the popularity of the Grand Tour to Italy in the 18th and 19th centuries. Visitors to these cities purchased mementoes of their visit, including micromosaic jewellery which often featured scenes of classical ruins. Florentine mosaics were primarily flower studies, set in coloured hardstone or black marble. The jewellery is made using small, intricate pieces of glass or enamel called tessarae, which are set into a metal base to create a pattern or image. The individual pieces of glass or enamel are usually no larger than a few millimetres in size, and are arranged in a mosaic-like pattern to create a detailed design. Mosaics originated in ancient Rome, where they were used to decorate floors and walls, and the technique was revived 18th and 19th centuries in Italy in micro format, where artisans began using it to create decorative jewellery, such as brooches, pendants, and earrings.
Mid-Century Hardoy / Butterfly / Bkf Chairs
A Hardoy chair, also known as a Butterfly chair or BKF chair, is a type of chair that has a simple yet distinctive design. It was created by three Argentine architects - Jorge Ferrari Hardoy, Juan Kurchan, and Antonio Bonet - in 1938.
The design consists of a folding metal frame that supports a suspended seat made of leather or canvas. The seat and backrest are designed to give the chair its characteristic shape, which resembles the wings of a butterfly.
The chair became popular in the mid-20th century and was featured in many modernist homes and public spaces. It was admired for its lightweight, durable design and its ability to be easily moved and stored.
View further examples of Mid-Century Hardoy / Butterfly / Bkf Chairs
Midwinter Pottery
William Robinson Midwinter founded Midwinter Pottery,
initially named W.R. Midwinter, in Burslem, Stoke-on-Trent in 1910. By the late
1930s, Midwinter Pottery had grown to become one of England's largest
potteries, employing over 700 people. In the 1950s, under the direction of Roy
Midwinter, the company had become one of the foremost innovators in British
tableware production. This success was largely due to the contributions of
renowned ceramicists and designers such as Jessie Tait, Terence Conran, Hugh
Casson, John Russell, and Peter Scott who worked for the pottery.
Midwinter Pottery was also a trailblazer in creating
"accessories" for their core dinner services and tea sets. Their
sister company, Clayburn Pottery, produced items like lamp bases that could be
incorporated into a Midwinter dinner service. In the 1960s, the Spanish Garden
design, which was a hit on dinnerware and tea sets, was featured on other
articles like bread bins and chopping boards. However, the expenses incurred in
developing two unsuccessful new ranges weakened the company, leading to a
takeover by J. & G. Meakin in 1968. Wedgwood later acquired Meakin in 1970.
Midwinter Pottery continued to produce pottery under their brand name from
their factory until 1987.
Mihrab
A mihrab is a conventional motif in Islamic rugs based on a prayer niche or mosque arch, which can be almost realistic or extremely abstract. It is the basic design element in the prayer rug.
Mikimoto
Mikimoto is a Japanese jewellery brand known for its exquisite pearls and high-quality craftsmanship. The company was founded in 1893 by Kokichi Mikimoto, who is credited with creating the first cultured pearl.
Kokichi Mikimoto was born in Toba, Japan, in 1858. He grew up in a family of pearl divers and became fascinated with pearls at a young age. He started experimenting with pearl cultivation in the late 1800s, hoping to create pearls that were more affordable and accessible than the natural ones.
After years of trial and error, Mikimoto succeeded in creating the first cultured pearl in 1893. His innovation transformed the pearl industry, making pearls more widely available and changing the perception of pearls as a luxury item.
In the years that followed, Mikimoto expanded his business, opening his first store in Tokyo in 1899 and launching his brand internationally in the early 1900s. His pearls gained a reputation for their quality and beauty, and the Mikimoto brand became synonymous with luxury and elegance.
Mikimoto remains a leader in the pearl industry, offering a wide range of jewellery designs featuring Akoya, South Sea, and Tahitian pearls. The company is headquartered in Tokyo and operates stores and boutiques around the world, including in New York, Paris, London, and Hong Kong.
Miles Mason
Miles Mason (1752-1822) was a British potter who is credited with the invention of ironstone china. He was born in Dent, Yorkshire, and began his career as a clerk in his uncle's stationery business in London. In 1775, he married Ruth Farrar, the daughter of a wealthy china merchant. Mason subsequently joined his father-in-law's business, and in 1792 he established his own pottery in Liverpool.
Mason's timing was impeccable. The Napoleonic Wars had made it difficult and expensive to import porcelain from China, and there was a growing demand for a durable and affordable alternative. Mason's ironstone china was just the thing. It was made from a mixture of iron-rich clay and bone ash, and it was both strong and translucent.
Mason's ironstone china quickly became popular, and he expanded his production to include a wide range of tableware, including plates, cups, saucers, and teapots. He also developed a number of innovative decorating techniques, such as the "ring" process, which allowed for the application of multiple colours to a single piece of pottery.
Mason's pottery was exported all over the world, and it was used by royalty and aristocracy alike. His ironstone china is still highly prized today, and it is considered to be among the finest English pottery ever produced.
In addition to his business success, Mason was also a philanthropist. He donated money to build a school and a church in his hometown of Dent, and he also supported a number of other charities.
Mason died in 1822, but his business continued to thrive under the management of his three sons William; George Miles and Charles James. In 1811 William Mason set up manufacturing on his own account. Miles Mason retired in 1813 and the business was continued by his sons George & Charles.
The Mason pottery remained in operation until 1962, and it produced some of the most iconic and collectible English pottery of the 19th and 20th centuries.
Milk Glass
Although milk glass has been made since the 16th century, it became popular in the mid 19th century, (when it was called opal glass) and almost all the glass that comes onto the market is from this period, manufactured in England and the USA.
The opaque porcelain-like white colour is achieved through the addition of white oxide tot he mix. Other ingredients are added to the mix to add colour: blue, pink, yellow, brown, and even black, but it is still called milk glass.
The most common objects were lamps, vases, lustres and other table ware.
Millefiori
Millefiori, which translates from the Italian as "a thousand flowers" is a method of decorating glass with slices of coloured canes in flower design, embedded in clear molten glass.
The technique was known as far back as the first century BC and was revived and modified in Venice in the 16th century.
The process was used to make paperweights in Venice and Bohemia in the 19th century, and the technique spread to France, England and the United States.
Millegrain
A type of jewellery setting where the stone is held is held in position by small adjacent beads of metal. This method of securing the stone was popular in the 19th century.
Milo Baughman
Milo Baughman was a prominent American furniture designer and architect, known for his sleek and modern designs that redefined American furniture in the mid-20th century. He was born in Kansas in 1923 and grew up in Long Beach, California.
Baughman started his career in the furniture industry in the 1940s, working for his father's furniture business. He went on to study architecture at the Art Center School in Los Angeles, but he soon realised that his true passion was furniture design.
In the 1950s and 1960s, Baughman gained popularity for his modern and minimalist designs, which featured clean lines, simple shapes, and a focus on comfort and functionality. He worked with a variety of materials, including metal, wood, and upholstery, and his designs often incorporated unusual materials such as lucite and cane.
Baughman's furniture was known for its timeless elegance and versatility, and his designs could be found in homes, offices, and public spaces across the United States. He collaborated with a number of leading furniture manufacturers, including Thayer Coggin, Drexel Heritage, and Glenn of California.
In addition to his work as a furniture designer, Baughman was also an accomplished interior designer and architect. He worked on a number of high-profile projects, including the interiors of the Playboy Club in Baltimore and the Miller House in Columbus, Indiana.
Baughman continued to work in the furniture industry throughout his life, and his designs remained popular well into the 21st century. He passed away in 2003, but his legacy as one of America's greatest furniture designers lives on. His pieces can be found in the collections of major museums, including the Museum of Modern Art in New York City and the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C.
Milton Pottery
Milton Pottery is a historic pottery company in New Zealand that was founded in the 1873. The pottery was established by Charles F. Bourne, a potter who had immigrated to New Zealand from England. Bourne had previously worked at the Rockingham Pottery in England and brought his knowledge and skills to New Zealand.
The pottery was located in the town of Milton, in the Otago region of the South Island of New Zealand. The town had a rich clay deposit, which provided the raw material for the pottery's production.
Milton Pottery produced a range of ceramic items, including dinnerware, teapots, jugs, and vases. The pottery's wares were known for their high quality and durability, and were popular throughout New Zealand.
One of the most iconic items produced by Milton Pottery was the "Milton Lion," a large ceramic lion that was created as a symbol of the pottery. The lion was sold throughout New Zealand and became a popular item for collectors.
The pottery continued to operate through the 19th century and early 20th century but production ceased in 1915 and the pottery was dismantled in 1917.
Mincham, Jeff
Jeffrey Mincham was born 1950, Milang, South Australia.
Studied art education at the Western Teachers College, South Australia and ceramics at the South Australian School of Art and the Tasmanian School of Art, Hobart, under Les Blakebrough.
In 1976 he began potting full-time at the Jam Factory Craft Centre, Adelaide, and became workshop foreman.
In 1977 he established his own workshop at Cherryville, South Australia, where he has continued to work up to the present.
In 2009 he was recognised as a "Living Treasure" by Craft Australia.
His first solo exhibition was at the Jam Factory, Adelaide in 1976.
His work is held by the Art Gallery of South Australia, Art Gallery of Western Australia, Australian National Gallery, Canberra, Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences, Sydney, National Gallery of Victoria, Queensland Art Gallery, Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery, and regional galleries.
Miner's Couch
Also known as a colonial day bed. Another Australian piece, the design derives from the sofas and couches in the Classical Revival style. The single or double ends are rounded or scrolled, with splay or sabre-shaped legs. The ends are connected by three or sometimes four substantial turned spindles. The pieces were sometimes supplied with backs, usually solid wood, of serpentine shape and often with a central 'rolling-pin' turning. The base generally consisted of three or four loose wooden slats laid horizontally.
The ends and side rails of these couches were often held together with bolts, enabling the piece to be easily dismantled and transported from one place to another. Hence the colloquial terms often used 'miner's couch', or 'shepherd's couch'. Many couches made in the same general design were not intended to be moved from the parlour and were often equipped with fixed turned feet and upholstered seats and backs. The colonial day beds were frequently made from red cedar, though many examples survive in pine or blackwood.
Ming Dynasty
The Ming Dynasty was a ruling dynasty of China from 1368 to 1644. It succeeded the Yuan Dynasty and preceded the Qing Dynasty. The Ming Dynasty was established by Zhu Yuanzhang, a former Buddhist monk who became a rebel leader and eventually overthrew the Mongol Yuan Dynasty. During the Ming Dynasty, China experienced a period of relative stability and prosperity. The government was centralized and bureaucratic, with the emperor at the top of the hierarchy. The Ming Dynasty is known for its cultural achievements, including the development of porcelain, the invention of movable type printing, and the construction of the Great Wall of China.
Minichamps
Minichamps is a die-cast model vehicle manufacturer founded in 1990 in Aachen, Germany. The company grew out of the Danhausen trade catalogue of miniature vehicles and specially made Danhausen diecast releases during the 1970s.
The first Paul's Model Art diecast car made by Minichamps was created in 1990; a 1:43 scale GTC Audi V8 driven by Hans-Joachim Stuck. It was the German Touring Car Champion in 1990. By 1995 Minichamps was manufacturing more than 110 different castings in several hundred different racing liveries and three different scales – and sponsoring real racing cars.
Minichamps has since expanded its range to include a wide variety of vehicles, including cars, trucks, buses, motorcycles, and aircraft. The company also produces a line of high-end resin models, as well as limited-edition and promotional models. Minichamps also offers collectors the option to purchase unassembled kits, allowing them to build and customize their own models.
Minichamps is one of the leading die-cast model manufacturers in the world and the company's products are sold in over 100 countries.
Minotti S.p.a.
Minotti S.p.A. is an Italian furniture manufacturer founded in 1948 by Alberto Minotti. The company is headquartered in Meda, a town north of Milan, and is known for its contemporary furniture designs that combine modern style with classic Italian craftsmanship.
In the early years, Minotti was a small-scale artisan workshop that produced handmade furniture. However, the company quickly grew and became known for its high-quality designs. In the 1960s, Minotti began to expand its production and distribution, and it soon became one of the leading furniture manufacturers in Italy.
In 1991, Alberto Minotti died and the company was inherited by his children, Renato and Roberto Minotti. The two brothers continued to grow the company and expand its international reach. In 1998, Minotti partnered with architect and designer Rodolfo Dordoni, who was appointed Art Director of the company. Dordoni has played a key role in shaping the Minotti brand, and his designs have helped to make the company one of the most respected furniture manufacturers in the world.
Minotti is a global brand with a presence in over 70 countries. The company produces a wide range of furniture, including sofas, armchairs, tables, beds, and lighting.
Minton
Thomas Minton (1765 - 1836) established his pottery at Stoke-on-Trent, styled as Thomas Minton & Sons, in 1793, while in his late twenties, having previously been apprenticed and then worked as an engraver at the Caughley works, where he is credited with the design of the "Willow" and "Blue Dragon" patterns.
After initially making blue printed earthenware and then soft paste porcelain, in the 1820s the company commenced producing bone china, and this became its principal activity.
Thomas Minton died in 1836 and the business was taken over by his son Herbert Minton, and by this time had established a reputation for wares of exceptional quality. The name of the company was changed to Minton & Co.
Many of their designs were classically based and either copied from Sevres designs, or finished from blanks supplied by Sevres.
Production of parian ware figures, a white unglazed statuary porcelain resembling marble, commenced about 1841, and some of the figures were based on sculptures by John Bell, and American Hiram Powers. Sales of parian figures were boosted by special orders from the Art Union of London, and other art unions where subscribers paid an annual fee, and in return participated in a ballot to receive a copy of an art work.
Herbert Minton died in 1848 and control of the company passed to his nephew, Colin Minton Campbell.
The company's high reputation enabled it to secure the services of a team of talented artists and designers, including some from France. The close relationship with Sevres continued when in 1849, Leon Arnoux a ceramicist from Sevres was appointed Art Director at Minton. He was responsible for the for the introduction of Minton's range of majolica which was one of the successes of the Great Exhibition of 1851.
Others recruited included Henry Mitchell, a talented painter of animal themes; Richard Pilsbury, a leading floral artists; Anton Boullemier who excelled in portraiture and allegorical compositions; William Mussill, a French-trained artist; Herbert Wilson Foster who specialised in portraiture, bird and animal subjects.
Another was Marc-Louis Solon, a French artist who moved from France to Stoke-on-Trent in 1870 and introduced pate-sur-pate, first used by Sevres, which is a method of building up low relief decoration by applying successive coats of clay slip or by modelling.
Solon's son Marc-Louis Solon a made major contribution to Art Nouveau ceramics with a fine range of slip-trailed majolica ware, while his son, Leon Solon produced designed that were strongly influenced by the Viennese Secessionist art movement. The range included tableware, as well as vases of many shapes.
The Minton factory in the centre of Stoke was rebuilt and modernised after the World War II.
During the rationalisation of the British pottery industry in the mid 20th century, Minton merged with Royal Doulton (in 1968), and in turn, Royal Doulton was taken over by the Waterford Wedgwood group in January 2005, and the group was renamed WWRD Holdings Ltd. (Waterford Wedgwood Royal Doulton).
WWRD Holdings Ltd. Was placed into receivership in 2009 due to being unable to service its extensive debt, and parts of the company were purchased by a New York private equity investor, KPS Capital Partners.
Mintons Ltd
Mintons Ltd. was a prominent British ceramic manufacturer that was established in Stoke-on-Trent, England, in 1793 by Thomas Minton and was an independent business from 1793 to 1968. The company quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality ceramics, and in 1849, it was appointed the official pottery supplier to the Queen.
One of Mintons' most notable contributions to the ceramic industry was the development of a new type of ceramic body, known as "Parian ware," in the mid-19th century. Parian ware was a white, unglazed porcelain that was named after Paros, the Greek island renowned for its fine-textured, white Parian marble, used since antiquity for sculpture. Minton's parian ware was designed to resemble marble, and was used to create a variety of decorative objects, including busts, figurines, and vases.
Mintons also became known for its innovative and high-quality designs, which often featured intricate patterns and motifs. The company collaborated with a number of prominent artists and designers, including Christopher Dresser, who is credited with introducing Japanese design elements to British ceramics.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Mintons continued to produce a wide variety of ceramic products, including tableware, tiles, and architectural ceramics. The company also expanded its operations to include the production of art pottery, with a focus on more experimental designs and techniques. Mintons made special pieces for the major exhibitions that were a feature of the period, beginning with the Great Exhibition of 1851 in London, where they won a bronze medal for "beauty and originality of design". They followed this with a gold medal at the Exposition Universelle of 1855 in Paris. In London Queen Victoria bought Parian pieces and, for 1,000 guineas, a dessert service in a mix of bone china and Parian, which she gifted to Emperor Franz Joseph of Austria.
Throughout the 20th century, Mintons faced increasing competition from foreign manufacturers, and in the 1960s, the company merged with Royal Doulton Tableware Ltd. to form Royal Doulton-Minton Ltd. The Mintons name and brand was later dropped
Mirek Smisek
Mirek Smisek was a New Zealand ceramic artist born in Czechoslovakia on 22 March 1925. He grew up in Prague, where he trained as a ceramicist and worked as an apprentice in a porcelain factory. In 1949, Smisek immigrated to New Zealand, where he settled in Auckland and began working as a commercial artist.
In the 1950s, Smisek commenced making ceramics, creating functional pieces such as plates, bowls, and cups. He was influenced by the modernist movement and the work of artists such as Bernard Leach and Hans Coper. Smisek's style was characterized by clean lines, simple shapes, and a focus on form and texture.
In the 1960s, Smisek began to experiment with sculptural forms, creating large, abstract pieces that were inspired by nature and the landscape of New Zealand. He often incorporated found objects into his work, such as stones, shells, and driftwood.
Smisek's work gained recognition in New Zealand and internationally, and he exhibited his ceramics in solo and group shows throughout his career. In 1978, he was awarded the prestigious Order of Merit by the New Zealand government for his contributions to the arts.
In addition to his work as a ceramic artist, Smisek was also a teacher and mentor to many young artists. He taught at Elam School of Fine Arts at the University of Auckland and was a founding member of the Auckland Studio Potters Society.
Mirek Smisek died on 10 December 2013, at the age of 88.
Mirrors
Small handheld or wall mirrors were not made in England until the beginning of the 17th century. Until then, most were imported from Venice. The celebrated Vauxhall glasshouses were opened in the 1660s.
At first, hand blown techniques were used, but the glass showed a great many imperfections, particularly when used for mirror making. Glass casting, where the molten glass was poured on to a bed of hot metal and rolled, was introduced in France in the later 17th century, but it was not until 1773 that the British Plate Glass Company was incorporated. From then on this glass tended to supplant the French imports.
Initially the mirrored pieces were relatively small and a large carved frame frequently had to incorporate glazing bars to accommodate several pieces of glass. After the mid-18th century improved techniques meant that large plates could be produced, and one supplied by Chippendale measured 231cm by 146cm.
Bevelling techniques, in which the edge of the plate glass was ground to a forty-five degree angle and polished, were not used on a wide scale until after 1750. Thereafter, most mirrors were bevelled until recently when the cost involved made it largely uneconomic.
From the early 19th century large numbers of round wall mirrors have been made with convex glass, the frames generally gilded and surmounted with an eagle or other trophy. While such pieces originally date from the Classical Revival period they have been made until modern times.
Though mirror backs are referred to as being 'silvered', silver was not used until the mid-19th century. Before that, an amalgam of tinfoil and mercury was used. In 1840 the process was invented whereby a thin coat of silver was applied to the glass by chemical means. Up until about 15 years ago, it was possible to have mirrors re-silvered, but this is now illegal, as it has been realised that the mercury and tin backing found on antique mirrors can damage heart, kidneys, lungs, brain and immune system.
Nowadays if a mirror is in poor condition it is replaced rather than resilvered. This is accepted practice for Victorian and later pieces, but for Georgian and earlier mirrors, the value is substantially depreciated if the mirror has been replaced or re-silvered. The consensus is that it is far better to learn to live with a mirror even if the reflection is somewhat worn and rubbed, than remove the main evidence that the piece is an antique.
An overmantle mirror is large framed, carved and often gilt plate-glass mirror attached to the wall above a mantelpiece. In Australia the term more usually describes a wooden frame containing several small mirrors and shelves supported by spindles that, during the later Victorian period and certainly by the Edwardian age, had largely replaced the single mirror above fireplaces. It was an age that liked indeed needed many small shelves to display the countless household knick-knacks.
Missoni
The Italian fashion house Missoni was founded in 1953 by Ottavio Missoni and his wife Rosita Gelmini. The company is known for its colourful and geometric knitwear, as well as its womenswear, menswear, childrenswear, home goods, and fragrances.
Ottavio Missoni was a track and field athlete who competed in the 1948 Summer Olympics. After retiring from sports, he opened a small knitwear workshop in Gallarate, Italy. Rosita Gelmini joined the business in 1953, and they began designing and producing their own knitwear.
The Missonis' first collection was presented in Milan in 1958. It was an instant success, and the company quickly became known for its vibrant colours and bold patterns. Missoni's knitwear was also notable for its innovative use of techniques such as jacquard knitting and patchwork.
In the 1960s, Missoni began to show its collections in Paris and New York, and its clothes were worn by celebrities such as Audrey Hepburn and Jackie Kennedy Onassis. Missoni also expanded into other areas of fashion, such as ready-to-wear clothing, accessories, and home goods. In the following decade Missoni's designs became even more daring and experimental. The company began to use unconventional materials such as plastic and metal in its garments. Missoni also collaborated with other artists and designers, such as the fashion photographer Helmut Newton and the architect Ettore Sottsass.
Missoni began to focus on international expansion in the 1980s. The company opened its first stores in the United States and Japan, and it began to produce licensed products such as perfumes and eyewear. Missoni also launched a diffusion line called M Missoni, which was aimed at a younger market. The company launched a men's wear line in the 1990s, and it began to experiment with new technologies such as digital printing. Missoni also opened its first museum in Sumirago, Italy.
Missoni is one of the most iconic fashion brands in the world. The company is still family-owned and operated, and it is led by Angela Missoni, the daughter of Ottavio and Rosita and continues to produce innovative and stylish designs that are loved by people all over the world.
Miu Miu
Miu Miu is a fashion brand founded in 1993 by Miuccia Prada, the daughter of Prada Group founder Mario Prada. The brand is named after Prada's childhood nickname. Miu Miu is known for its youthful, playful, and more affordable line of clothing and accessories than the Prada line itself.
Miuccia Prada began her career as a costume designer for the theater. In 1978, she joined the family business and became the creative director of Prada. Under her leadership, Prada became a leading luxury fashion brand. In 1993, Prada launched Miu Miu as a more youthful and affordable alternative to the Prada line.
Miu Miu quickly gained popularity with young fashion-forward women. The brand is known for its mix of classic and contemporary styles, as well as its use of innovative fabrics and prints. Miu Miu has also been praised for its advertising campaigns, which are often directed by renowned photographers such as Steven Meisel and Inez and Vinoodh.
Today, Miu Miu is a global fashion brand with over 100 stores worldwide. The brand is known for its high-quality products, its innovative designs, and its stylish advertising campaigns
Modernism / Modernist
Modernist furniture and design emerged in the early to mid-20th century as a response to traditional styles of the 19th century and prior times, and a reflection of the technological and social changes of the time. Characteristics of Modernist furniture and design include simplicity and minimalism and clean lines and a lack of unnecessary ornamentation are key features. That form follows function is a fundamental principle of Modernist design, and furniture and objects are designed with a focus on their practical use.
Modernist furniture often incorporates geometric shapes, such as cubes, rectangles, and circles. This reflects a departure from the more ornate and curvilinear forms of previous design styles. The furniture often prioritizes ergonomic design, ensuring that objects are comfortable and user-friendly. Modernist designers aimed to create designs that could be mass-produced, making good design accessible to a broader population.
Prominent figures associated with Modernist furniture and object design include designers such as Hans Wegner, Verner Panton, Florence Knoll, Harry Bertoia and Ettore Sottsass
Moet & Chandon
Moët & Chandon, the world-renowned champagne house, has expanded its portfolio beyond champagne to include a variety of kitchenware items. These items are designed to enhance the experience of drinking champagne and other sparkling wines, and are made with the same high quality materials and craftsmanship as Moet & Chandon's champagne bottles.
Some of the most popular champagne-related kitchenware items from Moët & Chandon include:
• Champagne flutes: Moet & Chandon champagne flutes are made from high-quality crystal and feature a slender design that helps to preserve the bubbles in champagne.
• Champagne buckets: Moet & Chandon champagne buckets are made from stainless steel or silver and feature a double-walled design that helps to keep champagne chilled for longer.
• Champagne stoppers: Moet & Chandon champagne stoppers are made from a variety of materials, including stainless steel, silicone, and glass. They are designed to keep champagne fresh for longer after the bottle has been opened.
• Champagne openers: Moet & Chandon champagne openers are made from high-quality stainless steel and feature a foil cutter and corkscrew. They are designed to open champagne bottles quickly and easily.
In addition to these items, Moët & Chandon also offers a variety of other kitchenware items, such as wine glasses, tumblers, decanters, and ice buckets.
Mogens Hansen
Mogens Hansen is a Danish furniture company founded in 1961 by Mogens Hansen. The company is based in Hasselager, Denmark, and specializes in the design and manufacture of mid-century modern furniture. Mogens Hansen furniture is known for its high quality, craftsmanship, and timeless design.
The company's history can be traced back to the early 1960s, when Mogens Hansen began producing furniture in a small workshop in Hasselager. Hansen was a self-taught furniture maker, and he quickly gained a reputation for his high-quality work. In 1961, he founded Mogens Hansen Furniture, and the company began to produce a wider range of furniture.
Mogens Hansen furniture is characterized by its clean lines, simple forms, and use of natural materials. The company has worked with a number of renowned Danish designers, including Børge Mogensen, Hans J. Wegner, and Arne Jacobsen. Mogens Hansen furniture is sold in over 50 countries
..
Mohair
Mohair is a type of fabric or yarn that is made from the hair of the Angora goat. Mohair is known for its softness, luster, and durability, and it is often used in high-end fashion and textile products.
The Angora goat is native to Turkey, but it is now raised in many parts of the world, including South Africa, the United States, and Australia. The goats are sheared twice a year to harvest their long, silky hair, which can be up to 30 cm (12 inches) in length.
The hair is then spun into yarn, which can be woven or knitted into fabrics for clothing, blankets, and other textiles. Mohair is often blended with other fibers, such as wool or silk, to improve its strength and texture.
Mohair is prized for its softness, which comes from the fine, tightly curled fibers of the Angora goat's hair. The fibre is also naturally lustrous, with a shiny, almost metallic appearance. Mohair is also highly durable and resistant to moisture, making it a popular choice for high-end fashion products such as suits, coats, and evening wear.
Molgaard-Nielsen, Orla (denmark)
Orla Mølgaard-Nielsen (12 September 1907 – 21 October 1993) was a Danish architect and furniture designer. He was born in Aalborg, Denmark. After training at the Aalborg Technical School (1924) and at the Art and Crafts School of the Design Museum in Copenhagen (1928), Mølgaard-Nielsen studied furniture design under Kaare Klint at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts (1931–1934).
In 1944, Mølgaard-Nielsen partnered with Peter Hvidt to form the Hvidt & Mølgaard design studio. The duo quickly became one of the most influential furniture designers in Denmark, known for their clean lines, simple forms, and use of natural materials. Their work was inspired by the Danish Modern movement, which emphasized functionality and comfort.
Hvidt & Mølgaard designed a wide range of furniture, including chairs, tables, sofas, and lamps. Some of their most iconic pieces include the Ax chair (1950), the Drop chair (1952), and the Egg chair (1958). Their furniture was produced by leading Danish furniture manufacturers such as Fritz Hansen and France & Son.
In addition to furniture design, Mølgaard-Nielsen also worked on a number of architectural projects. He designed several schools, churches, and private homes. He also served as a consultant on large bridge projects.
Mølgaard-Nielsen's work has been exhibited in museums and galleries around the world and he is considered one of the most important Danish furniture designers of the 20th century.
Molle Pottery
Florence Mary Goodsell was born in New Zealand in 1932 and studied pottery at the Elam School of Fine Arts in Auckland. After graduating, she worked as a potter in England for several years before returning to New Zealand in 1959.
Goodsell established Molle Pottery in 1960 in a small workshop in Auckland. She initially produced functional pottery, such as bowls, plates, and jugs. However, she soon began to experiment with more decorative pieces, such as sculptures and figurines. Her work was influenced by a variety of sources, including Maori art, Polynesian art, and Art Deco.
Items by Molle Pottery quickly became popular in New Zealand and overseas. Goodsell's work was exhibited in galleries and museums around the world, and she won numerous awards for her pottery. She continued to work as a potter until her death in 2008.
Molteni & Co.
Molteni & Co. was founded in 1934 by Angelo Molteni in Giussano, Italy. Molteni was a skilled carpenter and entrepreneur, and his workshop soon expanded into a successful furniture factory. In the early 1950s, Molteni began to collaborate with some of the most renowned Italian designers of the time, including Gio Ponti, Aldo Rossi, and Luca Meda. These collaborations resulted in a series of iconic furniture pieces that defined the Italian mid-century modern style.
One of the most famous Molteni pieces from this period is the D.552.2 Triangular Coffee Table, designed by Gio Ponti in 1955. The table is made of rosewood and features a distinctive triangular shape. It is considered to be one of the most important pieces of Italian mid-century furniture design. Another iconic Molteni piece is the Gliss chair, designed by Aldo Rossi in 1981. The chair is made of tubular steel and has a simple, elegant design. It is still widely used today in homes and offices around the world.
Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Molteni continued to produce innovative and stylish furniture designs. The company also expanded its production capacity to meet the growing demand for Italian furniture worldwide. In the 1980s, Molteni began to experiment with new materials and technologies. This led to the development of new product lines, such as the Passepartout modular storage system and the Dada kitchen line.
Molteni & Co. remains one of the leading Italian furniture companies and continues to produce high-quality, innovative furniture designs that are sought-after by customers around the world.
Mon
A mon is a Japanese heraldic emblem, indicating the status or the family of the owner, similar to a family crest. Nowadays almost all Japanese families and many businesses have a mon.
In decorative arts, mon are used as a decorative element on a vase, plate, bowl or item of furniture.
Monart Glass (moncrief Glassworks) (scotland)
Monart Glass was a range of glassware that was produced by the Moncrieff Glassworks, which was located in Perth, Scotland. The company was founded in 1865 by John Moncrieff and initially produced industrial glass.
Monart Glass was first produced in 1924, during a time when the company was experiencing financial difficulties. It was designed to appeal to the middle class and was marketed as a luxury product. The development of Monart Glass is attributed to Salvador Ysart, a glassblower who joined the Moncrieff Glassworks in 1922, after migrating from Spain with his wife and four sons. Ysart had previously worked for the famous French glassworks, Daum, and brought with him a wealth of knowledge and experience in the field of glassblowing. He quickly rose through the ranks at Moncrieff and was put in charge of the company's experimental department.
Under Ysart's leadership, the Moncrieff Glassworks began to produce a range of decorative glassware that was unlike anything else on the market. Monart Glass was characterised by its vibrant colours, intricate patterns, and unique shapes. Each piece was hand-blown and decorated, making them truly one-of-a-kind.
Monart Glass became popular among collectors and enthusiasts, and was produced until 1996 when the factory closed.
View further examples of Monart Glass (moncrief Glassworks) (scotland)
Mondial
Mondial is an Australian family-owned and operated jewellery business that has been in operation for over 50 years. The company was founded in 1962 by Fred and Maria Neuman, who opened a jewellery store called Carina Jewellers in Kings Cross, Sydney. Fred and Maria were originally from Europe, and they brought their European flair and eye for innovation to their business. Carina Jewellers quickly became known for its unique and stylish jewellery, which was inspired by the latest fashions from Europe.
In the early 1970s, Mondial moved to a larger location on Darlinghurst Road, where it remained for over 20 years. During this time, the company established itself as one of the leading jewellers in Sydney. In 1993, Mondial moved to its current location in the iconic Queen Victoria Building (QVB) in Sydney. The company's QVB store is one of the largest and most prestigious jewellery stores in Australia.
Mondial is known for its wide range of high-quality jewellery, including diamonds, gemstones, pearls, and gold and silver jewellery. The company also offers a bespoke service, where customers can create their own unique pieces of jewellery. The company sources its diamonds and gemstones from Australian suppliers whenever possible. Mondial also employs a team of skilled Australian jewellers who design and create the company's jewellery.
Over the years, Mondial has won numerous awards for its jewellery and its customer service. The company is committed to providing its customers with the best possible quality and value for money and is still owned and operated by the Neuman family.
Money Boxes / Money Safes
Money boxes, money safes, and mechanical banks have a long history, dating back to ancient times. Here is a brief overview of their evolution. The concept of money boxes can be traced back to ancient Greece and Rome, where they were used to store coins and other small valuables. In the Middle Ages, money boxes became more common, often taking the form of ceramic or wooden vessels with a slot or hole for inserting coins. In the 18th and 19th centuries, metal money boxes became popular, often shaped like animals or other whimsical objects.
Mechanical banks, which are designed to accept coins and then perform some sort of action, were first introduced in the 19th century. Some of the earliest examples were simple boxes with a lever that would trigger a mechanism to move a figure or object. As technology advanced, mechanical banks became more elaborate, featuring intricate designs and moving parts. They were often designed to appeal to children, and many featured popular characters from literature or pop culture.
Monies Jewellery
Monies is a Danish jewellery company founded in 1973 by
Gerda and Nicolai Monies. Gerda is the designer behind the brand, and her
husband Nicolai is the business manager. Monies is known for its bold and
statement-making pieces, which are often made with natural materials such as
wood, amber, and horn.
The Monies aesthetic is inspired by a variety of cultures,
including African, South American, and Scandinavian. Gerda's designs are often
oversized and feature unique shapes and textures. She is also known for her use
of bright colours and contrasting materials.
Monies jewellery quickly gained a following among
fashion-forward consumers, and the brand has been featured in major magazines
such as Vogue and Harper's Bazaar. Monies jewellery has also been worn by
celebrities such as Madonna, Rihanna, and Beyoncé.
In addition to its flagship store in Copenhagen, Monies jewellery
is sold in select boutiques around the world. The brand has also collaborated
with other designers, such as Karl Lagerfeld and Christian Lacroix.
Monies jewellery is one of the most popular and recognizable
Danish jewellery brands and is known for its bold, statement-making pieces and
its use of natural materials.
Monk's Bench
A dual purpose item of furniture, where the table top sits atop a chest, and when required the top tips to form the backrest while the top of the chest becomes the seat.
Monkey Orchestra
The Monkey Orchestra, was first made by Meissen in 1753, for Augustus III, King of Saxony, in 1753 supposedly after a guest at one his lavish banquets made fun of his orchestra and said that they played like performing monkeys.
The figurines were created by the Meissen modeller Johann Joachim Kaendler and revised by modeller Peter Reinicke in 1765/66. A full orchestra consists of 21 figurines, plus a music stand, but most sets coming onto the market contain fewer figures.
Later, other factories picked up the design and produced their own version of the monkey orchestra, and Meissen is still making a monkey orchestra.
Monochrome / Monochromatic
A painting or drawing finished in a single colour, or in different shades of a single color.
Monopodia
A monopodia is a support on an item of furniture comprising an animal's head and a leg, and was in use during the Regency period in England.
Monopodia / Monopodium
A monopodia / monopodium is a leg or support on furniture or other item, formed from the head and leg of an animal, usually a lion. This style of support became popular in the Regency period when it was used on tables, sideboards and occasionally cabinet furniture.
Montblanc Writing Instruments
German luxury brand Montblanc was founded in 1906, and is best known for its high-end writing instruments. The company's early focus was on producing high-quality fountain pens, but it has since expanded to offer a range of other writing instruments, including rollerball pens, ballpoint pens, and mechanical pencils.
One of the earliest Montblanc writing instruments was the "Rouge et Noir" fountain pen, which was introduced in 1909. This pen was notable for its unique design, which featured a snake motif and a retractable nib. It quickly became popular among writers and artists of the time, and helped establish Montblanc as a leading brand in the luxury writing instrument market.
Over the years, Montblanc has continued to innovate and refine its writing instruments, introducing new designs and technologies that set them apart from their competitors. One of the most notable of these innovations was the "Meisterstück" fountain pen, which was introduced in 1924 and quickly became one of the company's most iconic products. This pen featured a unique piston filling system that made it easy to refill the ink, and it was designed to be a reliable and durable writing instrument that would last for years.
In addition to its classic designs, Montblanc has also collaborated with a number of famous artists and designers over the years to create limited edition writing instruments that are both functional and works of art. Some of the most famous collaborations have included pens designed by Pablo Picasso, Andy Warhol, and Marc Newson.
Montblanc continues to produce some of the finest writing instruments in the world, and the brand is widely recognized as a symbol of luxury and elegance.
Montegrappa Pens
Italian company Montegrappa has been making high-quality writing instruments since 1912. It was founded in Bassano del Grappa, a small town in Northern Italy, by two friends, Alessandro Marzotto and Enea Vogliadini. The company originally produced gold nibs for fountain pens and then began manufacturing its own pens in 1925.
The company gained a reputation for producing some of the finest writing instruments in the world. Its pens were used by many famous writers, including Ernest Hemingway, John Dos Passos, and Paulo Coelho. The company also supplied pens to the Italian army during World War II.
During its life, Montegrappa has produced a wide range of pens, from the classic Extra 1930 model to the more modern and colorful Fortuna collection. In addition to fountain pens, the company also makes rollerball and ballpoint pens, as well as limited edition and special edition pens.
It has also collaborated with many famous brands and individuals, such as Ferrari, Sylvester Stallone, and Game of Thrones, to create unique and exclusive pens. These collaborations have helped to cement Montegrappa's reputation as a leader in luxury writing instruments.
Montegrappa remains one of the most respected pen makers in the world and its pens are known for their timeless elegance, superior craftsmanship, and attention to detail.
Monteith
A bowl with a scalloped or notched rim, used in 17th century to allow drinking glasses to hang by the foot into iced water for chilling before use.
Later examples often have a detachable rim, so the bowl can also be used for serving punch.
Moon Dial
If we imagine life in the 17th century, the only source of ascertaining the time of day or night would have been the local church or municipal clock striking every quarter hour, and able to be heard by all in the village. In England, when longcase clocks became popular and more affordable in the late 17th century, the function of timekeeping and source of time was moved to within the home.
An additional feature on some longcase clocks was to display the phases of the moon, that is the new moon, the full moon and the waning moon over the lunar 29 ½ day cycle. This information was important for farmers for working out cropping schedules; for travellers to know the amount of moonlight on a night they planned to travel; and for those who lived near the sea required knowledge of the tides.
Where included, the moon dial is usually in the form of a disc incorporated into the main dial plate, usually in the arched top section. The lunar cycle starts with the new moon displaying, which is a dark night sky and no man-in-the-moon face being displayed, and then progresses to the full moon face showing on the 15th day of the lunar cycle, and back to no face displaying as the moon wanes. Most lunar dials are partially concealed on each side of their opening in the main dial plate by semi-circular "humps" that allow the painted face to emerge slowly just as the real moon goes out of and back into the earth's shadow.
Nowadays, details of the lunar cycle is published in diaries, almanacs, and newspapers and although some modern longcase clocks are still manufactured with working moon dials, they are more for decoration than for use.
Moon, Milton
Milton Moon was born in 1926, Melbourne, Victoria.
He studied painting and drawing at Central Technical College, Brisbane, and then studied pottery privately with Harry Memmott, and wheel-throwing in particular with Merryn Feeney at the Sandison Pottery in Brisbane.
In 1982, after some years working in broadcasting and television he became Senior Pottery Instructor at the Central Technical College, Brisbane.
In 1969 he moved to Adelaide where he was appointed a senior lecturer in the ceramics department of the South Australian School of Art.
In 1974 he lived and worked in Japan for one year assisted by the Myer Foundation.
In 1975 he began working full-time at his Summertown Pottery in the Adelaide Hills.
Since 1959 he has held numerous solo exhibitions in all Australian capital cities and has participated in many group exhibitions.
He is represented in the Australian National Gallery and all the state galleries.
Moonstone
Moonstone is a type of feldspar mineral that is known for its iridescent or opalescent sheen. It is named for its resemblance to the moon's pale, glowing light. Moonstone can be found in a range of colors, including white, gray, peach, green, and brown. The stone is often used in jewelry making and is believed to have metaphysical properties such as promoting calmness, emotional stability, and intuition. Moonstone is also the birthstone for those born in June.
Moonstone Glaze (wedgwood)
Moonstone glaze is a type of glaze that was developed by Wedgwood in 1933. The glaze was created to mimic the opalescent and iridescent appearance of moonstone, a mineral that is often used in jewellery. The Moonstone glaze was characterized by its pearly, luminous finish with subtle shifts in colour as the angle of light changes. Wedgwood used this glaze on a variety of their ceramic pieces, including vases, bowls, plates, and teacups. Moonstone glaze was especially popular during the Art Deco period of the 1920s and 1930s, and and Wedgwood designers working with Moonstone glaze included Keith Murray and John Skeaping.
Moooi
Moooi is contemporary Dutch furniture and lighting design brand, founded in 2001 by Marcel Wanders, a renowned Dutch designer, and Casper Vissers. The name "Moooi" comes from the Dutch word for beautiful, and the brand is known for its avant-garde and eclectic designs.
Marcel Wanders, the co-founder and art director, is a prominent figure in the design world. He's known for his innovative and imaginative approach to design. Moooi collaborates with various designers to create unique and distinctive pieces, often blurring the boundaries between art and design.
While Moooi draws inspiration from various design periods, including mid-century modern, it doesn't exclusively adhere to a specific style. Instead, it embraces a diverse range of influences and aims to create products that tell a story and evoke emotions.
Moooi's pieces are often characterized by their whimsical and experimental nature. The brand has gained international acclaim for its bold and imaginative designs, contributing to the contemporary design scene rather than adhering to the mid-century modern aesthetic.
Moorcroft
William Moorcroft was employed by Staffordshire pottery manufacturers James Macintyre & Co. Ltd. as a designer in 1897, and after a year he was responsible for the company's art pottery studio.
William Moorcroft created designs for the Macintyre's Aurelian Ware range of high-Victorian pottery, which had transfer-printed and enamelled decoration in bold red, blue and gold colours. He also developed the art nouveau-influenced Florian Ware which was decorated entirely by hand, with the design outlined in trailed slip using a technique known as tubelining. William Moorcroft's designs won him a gold medal at the St. Louis International Exhibition in 1904.
Each piece of pottery produced was personalised with Moorcroft's own signature or initials.
William Moorcroft and James Macintyre & Co. Ltd. split up in 1913 and Moorcroft founded his own factory nearby. Some finance came from the famous London store Liberty, and Liberty continued to exercise control over Moorcroft until 1962.
Moorcroft's reputation was further enhanced with the appointment of the Moorcroft company as Potter to HM The Queen in 1928.
On the death of William Moorcroft in 1945, his elder son, Walter, took over management and design and he continued in this position until his retirement in 1987, after which he continued contributing to Moorcroft designs.
During the tenure of Walter Moorcroft, the Liberty store's interest in Moorcroft was purchased by Moorcroft in 1962.
In the 1980s Moorcroft got into financial difficulties as a result of rising wages and fuel, which were exacerbated by the labour intensive techniques employed by Moorcroft and the company went through several changes in ownership with the result that from 1993 the company was controlled by the Edwards family, which is still the case.
The young 24 year old designer Rachel Bishop joined Moorcroft in 1993, as only its fourth designer in almost a hundred years and her designs become immediately popular. In 1997 the Moorcroft Design Studio was formed with eight designers, and with Rachel Bishop as head designer.
Moorcroft celebrated its centenary in 1997, marking the year that William Moorcroft joined MacIntyre as its founding date, rather than the year the company was founded.
Moorcroft is still producing art pottery in its own distinctive design style, and with astute promotion and limited edition designs including Australian flora and flora, is selling more than it did in the mid-1920’s, its previous heyday.
Moore Bros.
Bernard Moore (1850–1935) was an English pottery manufacturer and ceramic chemist known for the innovative production of art pottery, especially his flambé glazes and pottery with reduced lustre pigments.
Moore was born in 1850 in Normacot, Staffordshire. In 1865 he began working for his father Samuel whose business was renamed Samuel Moore & Son. On his father´s death two years later, he took over the running of the firm. He was later joined by his younger brother Samuel Vincent Moore. From 1873 to 1905 they traded as Moore Bros.
Moore's knowledge of ceramic chemistry was considerable and he was widely consulted by the ceramics industry on technical matters. Throughout the 1880s and 1890s it is likely that he was experimenting with and perfecting the specialist and difficult glazes with which his name is now principally associated. In 1902 he was elected president of the British Ceramic Society.
After forty years running his family's pottery business, he sold the business in 1905 and set up his own pottery studio in Stoke-on-Trent in 1905 where he made art pottery with the help of a few assistants. After closing the studio in 1915, he worked as a ceramic consultant.
Moore Bros.
Moore Bros. was a prominent pottery company in England that operated from the mid-19th century to the early 20th century, and manufactured china tableware and high quality ornamental pieces at St. Mary's Works, Longton, Stoke-on-Trent, England.
The company was founded in 1872 by Bernard Moore and his younger brother Samuel Vincent Moore and by 1881 they were employing 150 people at their pottery works.
Moore Bros was known for its high-quality pottery that featured intricate designs and patterns. The company specialized in producing decorative pieces, including vases, pitchers, plates, and other household items.
The business closed in 1905 and the moulds and designs of Moore Bros. were sold. The St. Mary's works was purchased by Thomas C. Wild and were later to become the home of Royal Albert China. Bernard Moore operated from premises at Wolfe Street, Stoke-on-Trent as a 'Consultant Potter' and manufactured pieces with spectacular glazes.
Moquette
Moquette is a heavy woven upholstery fabric with a thick nap, renown for its hard wearing and durable qualities. Moquette is used as the upholstery fabric on the London buses and the Underground.
Moquette Fabric
Moquette fabric is made using a combination of cotton, wool, and synthetic fibres, using a weaving technique known as jacquard and is known for its durability and resistance to wear and tear. Cut and uncut threads form a short, dense pile and a distinctive pattern of raised dots or loops, which helps to make it resistant to stains and dirt.
Mordan, Sampson & Co.
Sampson Mordan (1770 - 1843) was apprenticed to John Bramah who invented an "unpickable" lock, and at the age of 45, established his own business with a partner, John Hawkins in London in 1815.
In 1822, they patented a "metal pencil with an internal mechanism for propelling the graphite 'lead' shaft forward during use", now known as the propelling pencil.
The following year, Mordan then bought out Hawkins, and entered into a business partnership with Gabriel Riddle, a wealthy stationer.
The partnership between Mordan and Riddle was dissolved in 1836 and the company continued to be run by Sampson Mordan alone.
Sampson Mordan died in 1843 and the business passed to his sons Sampson Junior, and Augustus and there were further changes in ownership, until the business was converted to a limited liability company in 1898 operating under the name S. Mordan & Co Ltd.
As well as propelling pencils, they manufactured patent locks, cedar pencils, pens, pencil holders, pin cushions, perfume bottles, vestas, inkstands, letter balances, copying and seal presses and fire proof cash and deed boxes, and the firm supplied novelty silver articles to many retailers including Asprey & Sons & the Goldsmiths & Silversmiths Co. Ltd.
Various whimsical patterns were introduced for their propelling pencils including pig and boar-shaped pencils, and horse heads, dogs, cats, fish, frogs and owls, and between 1820 and 1873, more than 160 patents were filed for various mechanical pencil designs.
The company ceased trading in 1941 following destruction of their factory by enemy bombing.
Moroso
Moroso is an Italian furniture manufacturer that has been renowned for its contemporary designs and high-quality craftsmanship. The company was founded in 1952 by Agostino Moroso in Udine, a city in the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region of northeastern Italy. Over the years, Moroso has collaborated with numerous renowned designers and architects, making it one of the leading names in the world of modern furniture. In its early years, Moroso focused on producing traditional upholstered furniture. However, in the 1980s, the company underwent a significant transformation under the leadership of Agostino Moroso's daughter, Patrizia Moroso.
Patrizia Moroso took over the company in 1984 and became its artistic director, steering it towards a more innovative and contemporary direction. Under Patrizia's guidance, Moroso began collaborating with leading international designers, architects, and artists to create unique and avant-garde furniture pieces. This approach allowed Moroso to combine traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge design concepts, resulting in a range of iconic and highly sought-after furniture collections.
Throughout the 20th and 21st centuries, Moroso has worked with a diverse roster of design talents, including Ron Arad, Patricia Urquiola, Ross Lovegrove, Tord Boontje, and many others. These collaborations have resulted in an extensive portfolio of furniture pieces that embody both artistic vision and functional excellence.
Moroso's furniture designs are known for their use of innovative materials, bold colors, and experimental forms. The company has also been committed to sustainable practices, incorporating eco-friendly materials and production techniques into its manufacturing processes. Moroso's products have received numerous awards over the years, including the Compasso d'Oro, a prestigious Italian design award. The company continues to push the boundaries of furniture design, collaborating with emerging and established designers to create pieces that blend art, functionality, and craftsmanship, and Moroso remains a significant player in the global furniture industry.
Morris Chair
A Morris chair is a type of armchair that was first designed by William Morris, the influential English designer, in the 19th century. The chair is known for its simple, yet functional design, which emphasizes comfort and durability.
Morris chairs typically have a reclining backrest and adjustable arms, which allow the user to customize the chair to their preferred seating position. The frame is usually made from hardwood, and the cushions are often covered in leather or other high-quality upholstery materials.
Over the years, the Morris chair has become an iconic piece of furniture, and many variations and adaptations of the original design have been created. It is associated with the Arts and Crafts movement, a design movement that sought to promote traditional craftsmanship and simple, functional design.
Morris, William
William Morris (1834 - 1896) an architect designer, artist, writer, poet and social activist is regarded as a leader of the Arts & Crafts movement in England.
After studying theology, ecclesiastical history, medieval poetry and art at Oxford University, Morris began work with a firm of architects for a short period.
In 1861 he formed a company Morris Marshall, Faulkner & Co. was formed to design and produce wallpaper, carpets, tapestries and stained glass, and they initially secured ecclesiastical works, later extending to domestic assignments.
In 1874 he took sole control of the company, buying out the other partners, and renaming it Morris & Co.
The origins of his designs can be traced to medieval Gothic styles but his organic flower and bird motifs encouraged later artists to seek inspiration for their designs in nature.
Mortimer & Hunt
Mortimer & Hunt was a London silversmiths firm founded in 1822 by Paul Storr and John Mortimer. Storr was one of the most celebrated silversmiths of his day, and his work was known for its fine craftsmanship and elegant design. Mortimer was a jeweller and merchant who brought business acumen to the partnership.
The firm was initially known as Storr & Mortimer, and it quickly became one of the leading silversmiths in London. In 1826, John Samuel Hunt, Storr's nephew, joined the partnership. Hunt brought with him a significant amount of investment capital, which helped the firm to expand its operations.
Storr retired from the firm in 1839, and the name was changed to Mortimer & Hunt. The firm continued to be successful under this name, and it was awarded the Royal Warrant of Queen Victoria in 1842.
In 1843, John Mortimer retired from the firm, and it was renamed Hunt & Roskell. The new partners were John Samuel Hunt, his son John Hunt, and Robert Roskell. The firm continued to be successful under this name, and it remained in business until the late 1960s.
Mortimer & Hunt was known for its high-quality silverwork, which was often decorated with intricate engraving and gilding. The firm produced a wide range of silver objects, including tea sets, coffee sets, dinnerware, candlesticks, and jewellery. Its work was exhibited at major international exhibitions, including the Great Exhibition of 1851.
The firm's silverwork is still highly prized today, and it is often found in museum collections. Some of the most famous pieces of Mortimer & Hunt silverwork include the Queen's Jubilee Vase (1887) and the Prince of Wales's Coronation Cup (1902).
The history of Mortimer & Hunt is a fascinating one, and it provides a glimpse into the world of Victorian silversmithing.
Moser, Ludwig
The Moser glassworks were founded by Ludwig Moser (1833 - 1916). He first opened a glass workshop in the centre of Karlovy Vary in the Czech Republic in 1857 and specialised in polishing, engraving, designing and making glass objects.
In 1893, together with his sons Gustav and Rudolf, he took over a glass factory in Meierhofen bei Karlsbad, so that he now operated a full service glassworks employing 400 people.
Ludwig Moser had developed a lead-free sodium-potassium glass that is more ecologically friendly than lead glass yet is extremely hard.
Within a short time he gained the reputation as the most prestigious producer of crystal in the Eastern Europe, supplying royalty and rulers such as Emperor Franz Joseph I of Austria, the Persian Shah Musaffereddine and King Edward VII of England.
Following the death of his father in 1916, Leo Moser took over the management, and the company expanded significantly with the
By 1922 the Moser company had become the largest producer of high-end drinking and decorative glass in Czechoslovakia
The company contracted during the Depression of the 1930s, and Leo Moser resigned from the company management in 1932 and then sold the family's shareholding in 1938.
The company is now publicly owned and listed on the stock exchange in the Czech Republic, where it has four outlets together with a worldwide distribution network, and the lead-free sodium-potassium glass developed by Ludwig Moser remains the basis of their products.
Mote Spoon
A mote spoon is a spoon with a perforated bowl, designed for removing floating tea-leaves from a cup of tea.
Mother of Pearl
Mother of pearl is a natural substance that is formed as an inner shell layer of certain molluscs, such as oysters, abalone, and mussels. The substance is made up of a combination of calcium carbonate and a protein called conchiolin, and it has a lustrous, iridescent appearance that makes it highly prized for decorative and ornamental purposes.
Mother of pearl is often used in jewellery and decorative objects, such as buttons, inlay work, and furniture accents. It can be cut and polished into various shapes and sizes, and the iridescent quality of the material gives it a unique and beautiful look.
Mother of pearl has been used for thousands of years in various cultures, and it continues to be a popular material in the world of art and design. In addition to its decorative qualities, mother of pearl is also valued for its durability and resistance to damage and decay.
Mother-Of-Pearl
Mother-of-pearl, technical name "nacre", is the inner layer of a sea shell. The iridescent colours and strength of this material were widely used in the nineteenth century as an inlay in jewellery, furniture, (especially papier mache furniture) and musical instruments.
In the early 1900s it was used to make pearl buttons. Mother-of-pearl is a soft material that is easily cut or engraved.
Nowadays it is a by-product of the oyster, freshwater pearl mussel and abalone industries.
Mottahedeh & Company
Mottahedeh & Company is a luxury tabletop and home decor company based in the United States. The company was founded in 1928 by Rafael Mottahedeh, an art collector and businessman who had a passion for collecting antique porcelain.
Mottahedeh began by importing antique porcelain from Europe and Asia and selling it to collectors and museums. Over time, the company expanded to include reproductions of antique porcelain and other luxury home decor items. Mottahedeh's reproductions were highly sought after and were known for their high quality and attention to detail.
In the 1960s, Mottahedeh's son, Tofigh Mottahedeh, joined the company and helped to expand its product line to include fine china, crystal, and silverware. He also opened retail stores in New York City and Beverly Hills, California.
Mottahedeh & Company is still owned and operated by the Mottahedeh family and the company continues to produce high-quality reproductions of antique porcelain as well as a range of other luxury home decor items.
Mouldings
Decorative strips, deriving from architectural features, that may be either applied separately to a piece of furniture or worked directly on to the carcase. Mouldings are found on cornices or pediments, around the edges of panels and drawer fronts, and around both the tops and bottoms of chests, bookcases and other cabinet furniture. Until the late 19th century mouldings were worked by hand, using a shaped moulding plane. Latterly, they have been shaped by machine.
Mounts
Mounts are used to describe bronze, brass and ormolu adornments on furniture especially quality furniture in the rococo and classical revival style, and are also the cabinet makers' name for the metal fittings on furniture, such as hinges, locks and handles, and metal edges and guards which protect furniture from damage.
Mourning Jewellery
In Victorian England there were strict protocols for mourning the death of a family member, relative or (in the case of servants) an employer of employer's family member. They were particularly observed by the upper classes, but followed by other classes where the apparel and accoutrements could be afforded.
Mourning protocols were mainly applied to women, who were expected to wear heavy, concealing, black clothing, together with a black crepe veil, and a cap or bonnet.
Mourning jewellery completed the ensemble.
For a widow, there were three stages of mourning, covering a period of two years or more. The first period of mourning, lasting for a year and a day, was known as "full mourning". "Second mourning" covered a period of nine months, and allowed for a slight relaxation on the colour and style of garments worn, and for mourning jewellery. "Half mourning" lasted from three to six months and more elaborate and coloured fabrics such as grey and lavender could be slowly introduced.
Different rules applied to men, children and servants, depending upon their relationship with the deceased.
When Queen Victoria’s husband, Prince Albert, died of typhoid in 1861, the Queen went into mourning, and continued mourning for the next forty years. She remained in full mourning for the first three years and dressed her entire court that way. The Victorian era reflected the Queen’s prudish ethics as well as, most visibly, her personal taste in mourning.
Although mourning jewellery predates the Victorian era, most antique mourning jewellery available in the marketplace is from the Victorian era.
One of the most popular materials used for the manufacture of mourning jewellery from the mid 19th century to the 1920s was a semi-precious black gemstone called jet. Jet was used to make traditional mourning jewellery such as watch-fobs, necklaces, rings, clasps and brooches.
The industry in producing jet jewellery was centred at the town of Whitby in North Yorkshire, where it was either collected from the beach or excavated at a number of inland locations in the North York Moors area.
The Whitby jet industry was at it's height in 1870s where it has been reported that approximately 1,500 men were employed in some 200 manufacturing workshops.
Another popular material used in the manufacture of mourning jewellery was human hair. A lock of the deceased's hair could be braided into a rope and used to make a watch-chain or a necklace, or placed inside a mourning lockets or a ring.
Other popular motifs in mourning jewellery were urns and snakes, (that symbolised eternity), skulls and skeletons.
By the 1880s photographs were being incorporated into lockets and rings, following a fashion set by Queen Victoria who included a photograph of Prince Albert in the mourning ring she wore in his memory.
The strict Victorian protocols of mourning, along with Victorian mourning jewellery, began to ease after the death of Queen Victoria in 1901.
When the queen died in 1901, traditional Victorian mourning clothes, jewellery and protocol died with her. Changing values meant that death became a taboo subject, not to be discussed in polite society. People no longer wanted to wear black and be reminded all the time, of the constant presence of death.
Mousiers Pottery
Moustiers pottery has been produced in the village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie in southeastern France since the 17th century. The first Moustiers factory founded by Antoine Clerissy began with earthenware but went on to make faience. The business continued under his son and grandson. In 1793 it was sold to Joseph Foque whose descendants ran it until 1852.
The pottery is known for its intricate designs and bright colours, which are often inspired by nature, mythology, and religious iconography. Moustiers Pottery is typically made from a blend of white clay, kaolin, and feldspar, which is fired at high temperatures to produce a hard, durable surface. The pottery is then painted with enamel paints made from metal oxides, which are fused to the surface of the clay in a second firing.
Some of the most famous motifs found in Moustiers Pottery include roosters, lilies, and cherubs, as well as scenes from classical mythology and biblical stories. Moustiers faience is still made today. The factory mark is an X
Moustache Cup
A moustache cup is a type of drinking cup or mug that has a small ledge or guard at the rim to prevent the wearer's moustache from getting wet while drinking. This type of cup was particularly popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when men's facial hair was often longer and more elaborate. The guard or ledge on the cup would typically be a curved or U-shaped piece of ceramic or metal that extended across the width of the cup, leaving a small opening for the lips. Some moustache cups also featured a spout or a straw to further minimize the risk of getting moustache hairs wet while drinking.
Movado Watches
Movado is a Swiss luxury watchmaker that was founded in 1881. The company is known for its minimalist and modern designs, and its watches are highly sought after by collectors.
One of Movado's most famous watch designs is the Museum Watch, which was introduced in 1947. The watch features a black dial with a single gold dot at 12 o'clock, representing the sun at high noon. The design was created by artist Nathan George Horwitt, and it is now part of the permanent collection at the Museum of Modern Art in New York.
Movado has also collaborated with other artists and designers to create limited-edition watches. For example, in 1999, the company released a series of watches designed by artist Kenny Scharf. The watches featured colorful, cartoon-like designs and were produced in limited quantities, making them highly collectible.
Movado has also created watches in partnership with other luxury brands, such as Coach and Hugo Boss. These watches often feature unique designs and high-end materials, and they are highly sought after by collectors.
In addition to its modern and minimalist designs, Movado is also known for its use of high-quality materials and Swiss craftsmanship. Movado watches are often made with stainless steel, sapphire crystal, and automatic movements, and are designed to last for many years.
Movado watches are highly valued by collectors for their unique designs, high-quality craftsmanship, and status as a luxury brand.
Movement
The technical name for the workings of a clock or watch, and does not include the dial or case.
Movie Daybills
Movie posters date back to the early days of cinema, when theaters would display posters outside to advertise upcoming films. In the early years, these posters were often simple and straightforward, featuring a photograph or illustration of the film's stars along with the title and a brief description.
As movie production grew and became more sophisticated, so too did the art of movie poster design. Many famous artists and illustrators created iconic movie posters, including Saul Bass, Drew Struzan, and H.R. Giger. These posters often featured bold designs and striking images that captured the essence of the film and helped to promote it to a wider audience.
Movie posters are now highly collectable, and there is a thriving market for vintage and rare posters. Some of the most sought-after posters include those from classic films of the 1920s and 30s, as well as posters for cult films and obscure releases. Posters featuring famous actors and directors, as well as those from popular franchises like Star Wars or James Bond, are also highly prized.
Movie daybills are a type of movie poster that were popular in Australia and New Zealand from the 1930s through the 1970s. They are smaller than standard movie posters, measuring approximately 15 inches by 40 inches, and were typically displayed in the windows of movie theaters to promote upcoming films.
Like other movie posters, daybills often featured striking images and bold designs that captured the essence of the film and helped to generate interest among potential audiences. Many daybills featured artwork by well-known artists and designers, and some were produced in limited numbers, making them highly collectible.
When collecting movie posters or daybills, it is important to pay attention to condition, as damage or wear can significantly affect the value of a poster. It is also important to purchase posters from reputable dealers or auctions, and to verify the authenticity of any vintage or rare posters before making a purchase.
Collecting movie posters or daybills is a rewarding and enjoyable hobby that allows collectors to own a piece of cinematic history and to appreciate the artistry and creativity of poster design.
Movie Lobby Cards
As well as movie posters and daybills, movie lobby cards are another type of movie memorabilia that are popular among collectors. Lobby cards are smaller than movie posters, typically measuring 11 inches by 14 inches, and were used in movie theaters to promote upcoming films.
Each movie would typically have a set of eight lobby cards, each featuring a different image or scene from the film. Like movie posters, lobby cards often featured striking images and bold designs that captured the essence of the film and helped to generate interest among potential audiences.
Collecting movie lobby cards has become a popular hobby among movie enthusiasts and collectors. Some collectors specialize in particular genres or time periods, while others collect lobby cards featuring their favourite actors or directors.
When collecting movie lobby cards, it is important to pay attention to condition, as damage or wear can significantly affect the value of a card. It is also important to purchase lobby cards from reputable dealers or auctions, and to verify the authenticity of any vintage or rare cards before making a purchase.
Movie Posters and Daybills
Movie posters date back to the early days of cinema, when theaters would display posters outside to advertise upcoming films. In the early years, these posters were often simple and straightforward, featuring a photograph or illustration of the film's stars along with the title and a brief description.
As movie production grew and became more sophisticated, so too did the art of movie poster design. Many famous artists and illustrators created iconic movie posters, including Saul Bass, Drew Struzan, and H.R. Giger. These posters often featured bold designs and striking images that captured the essence of the film and helped to promote it to a wider audience.
Movie posters are now highly collectable, and there is a thriving market for vintage and rare posters. Some of the most sought-after posters include those from classic films of the 1920s and 30s, as well as posters for cult films and obscure releases. Posters featuring famous actors and directors, as well as those from popular franchises like Star Wars or James Bond, are also highly prized.
Movie daybills are a type of movie poster that were popular in Australia and New Zealand from the 1930s through the 1970s. They are smaller than standard movie posters, measuring approximately 15 inches by 40 inches, and were typically displayed in the windows of movie theaters to promote upcoming films.
Like other movie posters, daybills often featured striking images and bold designs that captured the essence of the film and helped to generate interest among potential audiences. Many daybills featured artwork by well-known artists and designers, and some were produced in limited numbers, making them highly collectible.
When collecting movie posters or daybills, it is important to pay attention to condition, as damage or wear can significantly affect the value of a poster. It is also important to purchase posters from reputable dealers or auctions, and to verify the authenticity of any vintage or rare posters before making a purchase.
Collecting movie posters or daybills is a rewarding and enjoyable hobby that allows collectors to own a piece of cinematic history and to appreciate the artistry and creativity of poster design.
Mucha, Alphonse
Alphonse Mucha (1861 - 1931) was a Czechoslovakian born artist and illustrator who also worked in Paris and the United States. He is best known for his distinctively styled Art Nouveau paintings, illustrations, advertisements and designs.
He also designed jewellery, textiles furniture and smaller decorative items.
Muff Chain
A muff chain is a type of long chain, usually made of a precious metal such as gold or silver, that was worn in the 18th and 19th centuries as a practical accessory to hold a muff, which was a cylinder-shaped cover for the hands that was popular during this time. The chain was worn around the neck with the muff attached to one end, and the other end would be passed through a slit in the side of a coat or jacket, so that the muff could be held close to the body for warmth. Muff chains were often highly decorative and were sometimes embellished with gems or enamel work. While they are no longer commonly used for their original purpose, muff chains can be worn as a vintage accessory or as a decorative element in modern fashion.
Muffineer
A muffineer is a
small container with a pierced top, usually of of silver, or silver plate. It gained
its name from its early use for sprinkling sugar or cinnamon on muffins. muffineer
were part of the Victorian tableware. After the First World War.
Mughal / Moghal Art
The Mughal / Moghal Empire had a significant influence on art and decorative arts, particularly in the Indian subcontinent. Mughal art is known for its intricate designs, use of vibrant colors, and fusion of Persian, Indian, and Central Asian styles.
One of the most notable contributions of the Mughal Empire to art is the development of miniature painting, which is a style of painting that is characterized by small, highly detailed paintings. The Mughal emperors commissioned many miniature paintings that depicted scenes from everyday life, religious themes, and portraits of the royal family.
In terms of decorative arts, the Mughals were known for their exquisite textiles, particularly the production of fine silk fabrics, such as muslin and brocade. Mughal textiles were often decorated with intricate floral patterns and designs inspired by Persian and Central Asian motifs.
The Mughals also made significant contributions to the art of metalwork, including the production of fine gold and silver objects, such as jewelry and ceremonial objects.
Mule Chest
A hinged and lidded trunk or chest, with a lidded top and two and three drawers in the base, thus combining the features of both. They were made in England from the late 16th century to the early 19th century, mainly in oak and were often decorated with elaborate carvings. They sometimes used as a bench or seat, with a cushion or pad
placed on top for comfort.
Muller Freres
Muller Frères was a French glassmaking company that was founded in the late 19th century by Henri Muller in Lunéville, near Nancy, France and associated with the School of Nancy. Muller had worked for Galle, and was later joined by his four brothers and sisters. The company specialised in producing art glass, and quickly gained a reputation for their innovative designs and high-quality craftsmanship. The factory became known for its high quality landscape decoration on vases and lamps.
Muller Frères was also known for their use of the "pâte de verre" technique, which involved melting glass particles into a paste that could be moulded into intricate shapes and designs. This technique allowed the company to create highly detailed and sculptural pieces that were unlike anything else being produced at the time.
In the early 20th century, Muller Frères expanded their operations and opened a second factory in Croismare, France. The company continued to produce a wide range of art glass, including vases, lamps, and other decorative items, and their designs were exhibited in major international exhibitions, including the 1925 Paris World's Fair.
Muller Frères continued to thrive until the Great Depression of 1929 – 1933 when the demand for luxury glass plummeted. The company never managed to recover and they stopped production in 1933, and closed permanently three years later.
Muriel Moody
Muriel Moody (née Wilson) was a New Zealand commercial artist, welfare worker, sculptor and potter. She was born in Whangarei, New Zealand on 18 March 1907, the second of six children of John Munro Wilson and Mildred Carrick Proude. Her mother was a talented pianist and loved to sketch, and encouraged her children to develop their talents. Moody attended Palmerston North Girls' High School, where she showed signs of talent with drawing — the 1925 school magazine contained two of her sketches. After finishing school, Moody worked in Palmerston North as a commercial artist and continued to study art with lessons from Harry Richardson.
In 1941, Moody joined the British YWCA War Service and worked closely with the director of welfare for the Far East, fellow New Zealander Jean Begg. Moody spent seven years in England, Egypt, Ceylon (now Sri Lanka) and India setting up residential, recreation and welfare clubs for servicewomen. In 1946 she worked in Japan to open clubs for women of the British Commonwealth Occupation Forces, including a Muriel Wilson hostel. After a year in Sydney, Australia, receiving treatment for tuberculosis, Moody returned to New Zealand and married public servant Clive Robert Moody, known as Bob Moody, in 1949.
After her marriage, Moody settled in Lower Hutt, New Zealand and began to focus on her art. She studied sculpture with Colin McCahon and Toss Woollaston, and her work was soon exhibited in galleries around New Zealand. Moody's sculptures were often based on the human figure, and she was known for her ability to capture emotion and movement in her work. She also created a number of ceramic sculptures, as well as paintings and prints.
Moody's work was exhibited in solo and group exhibitions throughout her career, and she was awarded several prizes, including the Frances Hodgkins Purchase Award in 1972. She was also a member of the New Zealand Academy of Fine Arts. Moody died in Lower Hutt on 24 December 1991.
Muriel Moody's work is held in public collections around New Zealand, including the Auckland Art Gallery, the Christchurch Art Gallery, and the National Art Gallery of New Zealand. She is considered one of the most important New Zealand sculptors of the 20th century.
Murray, Keith
Keith Murray (1892 - 1981) was an architect and designer of pottery, glass and furniture who was born in Auckland, and educated in Auckland and London, and is considered one of the most influential designers of the early 20th century.
During World War I he served with the Royal Flying Corps, was mentioned in dispatches five times and awarded the Military Cross and the Belgian Croix de Guerre.
After the war, still in his mid-twenties he studied architecture and graduated from the Architectural Association School of Architecture in London in 1921, but unable to find work in this field led him in the short term to become a magazine illustrator, and then in the early 1930s, a full time designer of vases and table wares.
He worked as a freelance designer at Stevens & Williams of Brierley Hill in the West Midlands in 1932 and the following year commenced designing on a part time basis for Wedgwood. He also created designs in metal for silversmiths, Mappin & Webb.
His first designs for Stevens & Williams, producers of high quality art glass, proved successful, and in the next seven years he produced over 1200 designs, each of which was produced in limited quantities.
For Wedgwood, his emphasis was on the semi-matt glaze, and he designed vases, bowls and similar cylindrical ware, executed in a clean and restrained style, with minimal monochrome decoration, often limited to deeply incised lines or smooth steps in the shape.
Each piece designed by Keith Murray bore his signature above the Wedgwood mark.
In 1936 Keith Murray was appointed architect in charge of designing the new Wedgwood factory at Barlaston, Staffordshire.
During World War II, he served again in the RAF, and after the war he returned to his first profession, architecture, vacating the field of industrial design.
Murrine
A murrine is created by building up a cane or rod of glass, by plunging the rod into a coloured glass, and then into a shaped dip mould, and repeating this procedure using different coloured glasses to build up a variety of layers. When the dipping is complete a longer cane is created by stretching the glass, and once cooled, can be cut, and the pattern will be revealed in the cross-section.
Music Stand
An adjustable rack of chest height, used for holding sheets of music during a performance.
Wooden music stands are not readily available, and because of their scarcity, command a high price when the come onto the market.
Musical Boxes
The history of the music box dates back to 1796, when the Swiss watchmaker Antoine Favre perfected the concept of musical devices of reduced dimensions. The cylinder musical box evolved in the early 19th century from clocks with bell chimes. Instead of bells the music was created by tiny teeth as in the teeth in a comb being 'flicked' by the pins in a rotating cylinder. The early boxes had plain cases, and the spring mechanism which drove the cylinder was wound by a key. This was replaced by a ratchet lever. From 1860 the cases became more ornate with inlays and banding. The movements were enhanced with complications such as bellow, drums and bells, the latter of which were often hidden under decorative butterflies or bees. Another advance was to include additional cylinders, and while the box could only play a single cylinder at one time, the cylinders were interchangeable, thus increasing the repertoire of the box. Popularity and thus production of cylinder musical boxes declined in the late 19th century as they were superseded by the disc musical box. The music in these was created by a revolving disc with protrusions which strike keyed teeth. The discs were easier and cheaper to produce than the pinned cylinders of the musical box, the discs could be changed, and popular tunes could be put on disc overnight. The disc musical box reached its apogee of popularity between 1885 and 1914. There are two basic models of the disc musical box, the free-standing where the disc is vertical, and the table model, where the disc is usually horizontal. Many of the free-standing models could be in excess of 200 cm in height. For commercial use, models were made with a "penny in-the-slot" mechanism for use in public houses. Sometimes musical movements, both cylinder and disc, were incorporated in clocks.
Musk Wood
The musk is native to Tasmania, and is found in the rainforests and wetter regions especially along river banks. It grows to a height of between five and fifteen metres, it has a musk scent. A rare timber and therefore mainly used as a veneer in the 19th-century, it is light brown in colour and furniture constructed from it is very expensive.
Musket
A musket is a long barrel firearm that was commonly used in warfare from the 16th to the 19th centuries. The musket had a smooth bore barrel, meaning that the interior of the barrel was smooth rather than rifled, and it fired a lead ball or shot.
Musket technology evolved over time, with earlier muskets being fired by a matchlock mechanism that involved using a lit match to ignite the gunpowder in the barrel. Later muskets used a flintlock mechanism that relied on striking a piece of flint against a metal plate to produce sparks that ignited the gunpowder.
The musket was typically loaded from the muzzle, with gunpowder and a lead ball or shot being poured down the barrel. The musket was then primed, or prepared for firing, by adding a small amount of gunpowder to a pan near the breech of the gun. When the trigger was pulled, the priming powder would ignite and set off the gunpowder in the barrel, propelling the lead ball or shot out of the muzzle.
Muskets were widely used in many major conflicts, including the American Revolutionary War, the Napoleonic Wars, and the American Civil War. They were eventually replaced by more advanced firearms, such as rifles, which had rifled barrels that greatly improved accuracy and range.
Musson
Sydney jeweller Musson was founded by Robert and Kerry Musson in 1972. Specialising in fine diamond jeewllery, Musson has been entrusted with some of Australia’s most important jewels. In 2020 Musson acquired the ‘Argyle Octavia’ diamond. Mined at the Argyle Mine in Western Australia weighing 28.84cts, Musson cut the gem into three majestic diamonds. Octavia 1, a princess cut weighing 17.18cts is the largest polished Argyle white diamond. Now into its second generation, the business is managed by Robert Musson and his two sons and operates from two retail premises in Sydney.
Myer Heritage Furniture
Myer Heritage furniture was a range of high-quality, Australian-made furniture that was produced by the Myer department store chain from the late 1940s to the early 1960s. The furniture was designed by Fred Ward, who was one of Australia's most prominent furniture designers of the time. Ward was inspired by the European modernism of the time, and his designs for Myer Heritage were characterized by their clean lines, simple forms, and use of natural materials, such as Tasmanian blackwood and walnut. The furniture was also designed to be functional and durable.
Myer Heritage furniture was popular with Australia's emerging middle class, who were looking for modern and stylish furniture that was also affordable. The furniture was sold in Myer department stores and it was also exported to New Zealand and other countries. In the early 1960s, Myer ceased production of Myer Heritage furniture. This was due to a number of factors, including changes in consumer tastes and the increasing popularity of imported furniture. However, Myer Heritage furniture remains highly sought-after by collectors and vintage furniture enthusiasts.
Myott, Son & Co.
Myott, Son & Co was a ceramics manufacturer based in Stoke-on-Trent, England. The company was founded in 1860 by George Thomas Mountford, and was originally known as the Alexander Pottery. In 1898, the company was purchased by the Myott family, and the name was changed to Myott, Son & Co.
The company produced a wide range of ceramics, including tableware, decorative items, and figurines. Myott, Son & Co was known for its high quality and innovative designs. The company's products were sold all over the world, and it won numerous awards for its craftsmanship.
In the early 1900s, Myott, Son & Co was one of the leading ceramics manufacturers in England. The company's products were popular with the public, and it was a major employer in the Stoke-on-Trent area.
However, the company faced increasing competition from foreign manufacturers in the 1960s. In 1969, Myott, Son & Co was acquired by Interpace Corporation, a US-based ceramics company. Interpace Corporation continued to produce ceramics under the Myott, Son & Co name until 1989, when the company was closed down.
Despite its relatively short history, Myott, Son & Co was a major player in the ceramics industry. The company's products are still admired today for their high quality and beautiful designs.
Mystery Clock
A mystery clock is a type of clock that appears to have its hands or other components moving in a way that is not immediately apparent. The design of a mystery clock usually includes a clear glass or crystal case that houses the clock movement and mechanism, but does not reveal how the hands are driven or what makes the clock run.
Mystery clocks were first introduced by the French clockmaker, Jean Eugene Robert-Houdin, in the mid-19th century. The clocks were designed to incorporate a clever mechanism that used transparent discs, mirrors, or other optical illusions to create the appearance that the hands of the clock were floating in mid-air, or were suspended from some unseen force.
The intricate workings of a mystery clock make them highly prized by collectors and enthusiasts of horology (the study of timekeeping and clocks). Some of the most famous makers of mystery clocks include Cartier, Breguet, and Jaeger-LeCoultre.