Armitage Shanks Sun King Basin and Pedestal

Capture the optimistic glow of the early seventies with this genuine Sun King basin and pedestal. Manufactured in 1971 by Armitage Shanks, this set is part of the classic Avon range. Sun King is a distinct and celebrated colourway; while it shares the warmth of peach, it features a deeper, more saturated sandy-orange hue that reflects the “sunset” aesthetic popular in high-end 1970s interiors.

The Iconic ‘Avon’ Design

The Avon range was one of Armitage Shanks’ most successful lines, prized for its balanced proportions and clean, functional lines:

• Sun King Glaze: First released in the late 1960s, this colour provides a rich, organic warmth that pairs beautifully with natural wood, brass fixtures, or bold retro tiling.

• 2-Tap Hole Configuration: The basin features the traditional twin-tap layout, making it ready for authentic 1970s pillar taps or high-quality modern replacements.

• Coordinated Pedestal: The matching pedestal provides a sturdy, elegant foundation, concealing pipework while maintaining the suite’s streamlined silhouette.

Condition and Restoration

As a genuine 50-year-old fixture, this set has been carefully preserved and inspected:

• Very Good Condition: The vitreous china has been professionally cleaned and polished to revive the vibrant Sun King lustre.

• Structural Integrity: We have verified that there are no chips or cracks in either the basin or the pedestal.

• Pristine Glaze: The finish remains smooth and glossy, free from the heavy crazing or staining often found in reclaimed units of this vintage.

Technical Specifications

• Manufacturer: Armitage Shanks

• Model: Avon

• Colour: Sun King (Sandy Orange)

• Date of Manufacture: 1971

• Width: 56.5cm

• Depth: 41cm

• Height: 80cm

Why Choose a Sun King Basin and Pedestal?

The Sun King basin and pedestal are a vital find for anyone performing a “like-for-like” replacement in a 1970s home. Because Sun King is a discontinued and highly specific pigment, finding an original Armitage Shanks piece is the only way to ensure a perfect tonal match with an existing toilet or bath. It also serves as a fantastic standalone “statement” piece for designers looking to introduce an authentic mid-century warmth to a new project.

Safe and Secure Delivery

Shipping vintage ceramics requires expert care. We offer secure delivery at an extra cost, utilising reinforced, shock-absorbent packaging to ensure your Sun King suite arrives in perfect condition. Alternatively, collection is available from our workshop.

Need a Specific Match?

If you can’t find the exact item you’re looking for online, please get in touch. Our warehouse holds hundreds of unlisted pieces from heritage British manufacturers like Armitage Shanks, Royal Doulton, Twyfords, Shires, and Ideal Standard.

Specialists in Discontinued Colours

We stock an extensive range of rare bathroom shades from the 1950s through to the 1990s. Whether you need a 1980s Heather Pink or a 1990s Peach, we can help you find the perfect replacement.

Our inventory includes popular and rare tones such as:

• Classic Pinks: Flamingo, Orchid, Chiffon, and Rose Water.
• Retro Greens: Avocado, Pampas, Sage, and Apple Blossom.
• Vintage Blues: Bermuda Blue, Sky Blue, and Caspian.
• Earth & Neutrals: Indian Ivory, Champagne, Pergamon, and Harvest Gold.
• The “Whisper” Range: Available in Apricot, Blue, Cream, Green, Grey, Peach, and Pink.

Looking for a specific shade like Penthouse, Twilight, or Bali? Get In Touch — we likely have the exact match in our unlisted stock.