Showcasing a solo commission by acclaimed artist, Pippa Hale, the exhibition sees the museum’s renowned ceramic collection re-imagined into a vibrant and interactive experience for all ages. With larger-than-life, soft recreations of animal figurines that can be played with, art and animal lovers can explore a display of the original ceramics that inspired them and share their own cherished items with the community. Be inspired as you learn about the traditional decorating and manufacturing techniques, as well as the cultural stories behind the collection, and create your own charming figurines to take home.
About Pippa Hale
Pippa Hale is a contemporary artist based in Leeds. Her practice centres around history, geography and play and includes large-scale installations in heritage venues, the public realm and museums and galleries in media ranging from foam and inflatables to iron and digital technology. She is interested in the parallels between creativity and play and likes to make her artworks – not just playful – but playable. Wherever possible she roots artworks to their locations, often working with local communities to connect people to places. For more information, visit the artist’s website https://pippahale.com/
Exhibition Highlights
Dog, 1768 Berlin Porcelain, Germany, Hard paste porcelain, enamel and gold
Banned from Parliament but welcomed in porcelain, the King Charles Spaniel has long been a symbol of devotion.
King Charles II (1630-1685) famously adored the breed. A long standing myth claims he granted them access to all public buildings, including London’s Parliament, although no record of the law exists. Made in 1768 by the Berlin Porcelain Manufactory, this figure – with its decorated collar and tassled cushion – reflects the breed’s status as fashionable companions.
Child’s teaset, c.1937
Labelled by the retailer C.W. Wilson & Sons Co./Sunderland – GREEN RABBIT 5.6 1/3/Set. No.1/BRITISH MADE
Green-glazed earthenware
There is a note on the box of this child’s tea set that says a similar one was bought by Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother for her daughters Elizabeth and Margaret Rose (later Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Margaret).
Although this particular example appears unused, a child’s tea set sparks imagination. Each bunny-inspired cup and saucer hints at a world where everyone gathers for enchanting tea parties.
Cat, c.1875
Staffordshire Pottery
Earthenware and enamel
With its bold yellow spots and bright enamel, this Staffordshire cat would have brought a playfulness to any mantelpiece. Made in 1825, it refelects the region’s thriving ceramic industry, which produced affordable, cheerful figures for ordinary homes. Unlike porcelain factories that often catered particularly for the elite, Staffordshire potteries made animals that were charming rather than always lifelike
