THE work of a world-famous Victorian designer with strong regional connections takes centre stage at an auction in Darlington next week.

Ceramics by Christopher Dresser feature in an extensive collection of pieces from the renowned Linthorpe Art Pottery at Thomas Watson’s spring antiques catalogue sale on Tuesday.

The Middlesbrough-based pottery was in existence for only ten years (1879-1889) but produced some of the finest pieces of art pottery of the age, which are now highly prized by collectors across the globe.

Much of its success was due to its connection with Christopher Dresser, who was the art superintendent at the pottery between 1879 and 1882.

Dresser ranks amongst the most influential ceramic designers of any period and was a leading exponent of the Arts and Crafts movement alongside contemporaries such as William Morris.

In recent years there has been a surge of worldwide interest in him with the publication of major new textbooks and exhibitions in London and New York.

This is accompanied by a strong regional following for the designer. This summer will see the second DresserFest organised by the Christopher Dresser Society and Teesside University. Many of the events will be held in Middlesbrough’s Dorman Museum, which holds the largest collection of Linthorpe Pottery in the world.

“It’s fantastic to be able to offer such an extensive collection of this characteristic pottery, known the world over for its unusual designs and vibrant glazes,” said David Elstob, auctioneer and valuer.

“It can be difficult to acquire pieces of Linthorpe due to the fact that it was in production for such a short period and that so many of the pieces are by Dresser himself really is the icing on the cake.”

“There is a mounting demand for Linthorpe pottery and Dresser’s work in particular - especially in the North East - and we are expecting a great deal of interest in the sale from people wanting to boost their collections to those seeking a one-off statement piece of iconic design,” he added.

With more than 100 items divided into 44 separate lots, the collection includes single items such as jugs, vases and bowls, together with pairs and small groupings. Guide prices range from £60 to £120 for a small group of pieces to single items by Christopher Dresser valued at £200 to £300.

Pieces include an impressive salad bowl of flying saucer shape with brown glaze; a striking Peruvian-style two-handled vase; and an attractive plate decorated with butterflies and flowers – all carrying the important facsimile signature and Henry Tooth monogram.

This sale comes hot on the heels of another large collection of Linthorpe Art Pottery that made top prices at Thomas Watson’s winter sale in December.

The sale starts at 10am. Items can be viewed tomorrow and on Sunday between 10am and 1pm and Monday from 9am to 4pm. For more details contact 01325 462559 or email enquiries@thomaswatson.com.