Art Deco Armitage Ware Amber Basin & Pedestal | Rare “Marble Effect”

Discover a truly exceptional piece of British heritage with this Amber basin & pedestal. Manufactured by Armitage Ware (then known as Edward Johns & Co., and eventually Armitage Shanks), this set dates back to the early days of coloured ceramic experimentation.

This particular basin features a striking, unintentional marble effect. In the 1930s, as Armitage Ware became the first to attempt coloured glazes, these swirling patterns emerged during production. Rather than discarding them, the company released them to the public, where they became a highly sought-after trend. Today, these “experimental” pieces are among the rarest bathroom antiques.

Product Highlights & History

• Museum-Grade Rarity: A genuine product of the early colour-glazing trials in the UK.

• Striking Amber Palette: A deep, dark yellow tone that perfectly encapsulates the Art Deco and early mid-century aesthetic.

• Unintentional Marble Finish: Features unique, swirling mineral-like patterns within the glaze, ensuring no two pieces are ever identical.

• Generous Dimensions: At 65cm wide, this is a substantial statement piece for a primary period bathroom.

• Configuration: Features 2 tap holes, ready for authentic antique pillar taps.

Technical Specifications

• Width: 65cm

• Depth: 47cm

• Height: 81cm

Condition & Collection

This antique set is in incredible condition for its age. Due to its significant historical value and the fragile nature of early 20th-century vitreous china, collection is preferred. However, specialised delivery can be arranged at an extra cost with professional-grade crating.

If you are restoring an early 20th-century property, browse our other Art Deco bathroom treasures to find the perfect architectural match for your home.

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.