Willsgrove Ware Soup Pots and Bowls

These unusual ceramic soup pots and bowls were manufactured by Willsgrove Ware Pottery, a Zimbabwean company that has been open since 1965. Of course, Zimbabwe gained independence in 1980 but before that it was known as Rhodesia. As the maker’s stamp indicates, these fabulous pieces of tableware hail from the pre-independence period and my guess would put their vintage in the 1970s, given the mottled beige colour of the glaze. The bowls and pots have a decidedly “Afro-retro” shape which along with their relatively neutral colour, makes the set effortlessly stylish. The previous owner clearly loved these pieces as they are in immaculate condition with no chips or damage to any of the parts. Consistent with their age, some crazing is visible on a few of the bowls (see images) but these really don’t detract from the set at all. Also to mention, is that the colour on one of the bowls is fading near the base (see image) – but in fact, I noticed this only when photographing the pieces. While it’s not classic soup season right now, I think this fine set would be a perfect way to serve up some Gazpacho in coming Summertime evenings.