Gillies Jones: Glassware of Rosedale


May 2024

 

In the small village of Rosedale Abbey, nestled in the heart of the North Yorkshire Moors, lies the studio of Gillies Jones, a fine example of contemporary glassmaking. Founded in 1995 by Stephen Gillies and Kate Jones, this studio has become synonymous with exquisite craftsmanship and innovative design in the realm of glass art.

We recently received a consignment of nineteen pieces by these esteemed glassmakers, which are set to grace our Decorative Antiques and Collectors Sale on the 17th of May, so we decided to take a closer look at the art of glassmaking and the pair's work.

 

Gillies Jones stands out in the contemporary glassmaking scene for their dedication to the age-old techniques of glass blowing, coupled with a keen aesthetic sense that captures the essence of the natural beauty surrounding their North Yorkshire studio. Their work is a testament to the enduring allure of glass as a medium for artistic expression, merging functionality with profound artistic integrity.

The process of creating these glass pieces involves both traditional and innovative techniques. At Gillies Jones, glass is not merely moulded but born of a fiery dance between gravity and skill. The glassmakers employ methods such as blowing, sand-casting, and kiln-forming to transform raw materials into intricate artworks. The vibrant colours and striking patterns that characterise their work are achieved through the careful layering of coloured glass powders and granules, which are then fused onto the surface of the glass at high temperatures.

Each piece by Gillies Jones is a unique testament to their artistic journey and a celebration of their pursuit of excellence in glassmaking. The studio not only produces visually stunning artworks but also contributes to the sustainability of this craft through their dedication to traditional techniques and local sourcing. You can find examples of their work in numerous museum collections, including London’s V&A.

Our upcoming Decorative Antiques & Collectors sale features a range of Gillies Jones pieces, each telling its own story of creativity and craftsmanship. Among these are several limited edition examples, including the Peony Flower bowl (Nov 2014), Field Poppy bowl (Sep 2016) Holly bowl (Dec 2017) and Bramble bowl (Oct 2018) to name just a few, each meticulously crafted and beautifully representative of the studio’s distinctive style.

Pictured above (left to right) Lot 64: The Bramble Bowl, Lot 57: The Holly Bowl, Lot 62: The Field Poppy Bowl, Lot 53: The Peony Flower bowl

Each of these pieces not only embodies the artistic vision of Gillies and Jones but also reflects their appreciation for nature and their mastery over the technical challenges of glassmaking. The collection also includes various other examples of their work, offering collectors a rare opportunity to own a piece of contemporary glass art history.

Don’t miss your chance to celebrate the beauty of glass with one of these unique handmade creations. Browse the catalogue now and perhaps find that special piece to cherish in your collection.
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