William Potts

Active: 1851 - 1853

Function: Decorative metallic works and sepulchral monuments in bronze

Policy: 'Patented Sepulchral Monuments'.
Text quotes manufacturer's [Potts] own description:
'[I was...] led to adopt the invention from a knowledge that the deposition of metal-work ensured true types of the model with its expression unimpaired, while the under-cut surfaces allowed of perfection in outline, and of the bold shadows on which artistic force so much depends. The mounting of sculptural works in bronze with architectural framings or supports in marble or stone, distinguishes and produces a greatly relieved effect, at a very moderate cost'.

Writer then proceeded to add that Potts had secured a second patent regarding such works and in so doing had protected the moulding of sculptural designs on material bearing a high polish, and so closely resembling statuary marble as to allow of the production of fine works of Art at so diminished a price, that it will place them within the reaches of the middle class generally; he thus hopes to aid in popularising high Art by bringing it to bear on works imbued with religious sentiment for the mass of the public. We have no space here to comment upon the designs here introduced (which are modelled by Mr Jefferson of Lambeth) except to say that the first of the larger monuments, representing 'Filial Life', is erected to the memory of Mr. and Mrs. W. Churton, of Whitechurch, Shropshire; The military monument is to the memory of a deceased officer...the others represent 'Grief Lamenting the Extinguished Lamp of Life' and 'Grief supported by Resignation'. These works are of exceeding merit. See p. 19.

Products & Services

Candelabra, clocks, gas chandeliers in bronze

Sepulchral monuments in bronze