Hornsea Fleur-de-Lys Mugs

Curatorial Story & Cultural Heritage

A pair of green and gold Fleur de Lys footed mugs by Hornsea Pottery. Hornsea Pottery was founded by Desmond and Colin Rawson in the seaside town of Hornsea, England, starting in 1949. The company became known for innovative ceramic designs, modern manufacturing techniques, and distinctive tableware that captured mid-century popular tastes. Their factory used advanced casting and glazing methods to produce durable everyday housewares with a clean aesthetic. People used these decorative mugs for serving coffee or tea during family gatherings and quiet mornings at home. They were kept in kitchen cupboards and displayed on open shelving in dining rooms across Britain. Over time, changing home decor trends and the eventual closure of the pottery works brought the production of these distinctive daily pieces to a permanent end. Period: 1960s-1970s Origin: Hornsea, England