Who was Clarice Cliff and why do we love her pieces so much? As lovers of the Art Deco period, it’s no surprise that the team here at Hepburn & Hughes enjoy the art of Clarice Cliff. Read on to find out more about who she was as an artist, and how we are upcycling some of her beautiful artwork.
Who was Clarice Cliff?
Clarice Cliff was an innovative ceramic artist and designer who was born in Stoke-on-Trent in 1899. As an Art Deco artist, she was known for her bold and colourful designs and was one of the leading figures in this movement. Starting her career as an apprentice, Clarice Cliff quickly made a name for herself, as her style of pottery was unique and distinctive. Showcasing beautiful geometric patterns, vibrant colours and imaginative themes, Cliff made eye-catching pieces which remain well loved to this day. Her designs often featured stylised floral motifs, sunbursts and abstract landscapes.
One of our favourite facts about Clarice Cliff was that she began working in the pottery industry at the age of 13, but when she was 17 she joined AJ Wilkinson’s pottery factory in Burslem. She launched her first major collection called ‘Bizarre’ in 1927, which featured her signature bright colours and abstract patterns. By the 1930s, Cliff's designs were celebrated internationally, and she became one of the most influential ceramic artists of her time. To this day, Clarice Cliff's work remains highly collectible, with so many of her pieces displayed in museums and private collections worldwide.
Our Clarice Cliff Art Deco Jewellery Collection
To make our Clarice Cliff jewellery collection, we take broken and cracked pieces of pottery and make them into pendants, earrings and cufflinks. To find these unique pieces, we scour auction sites and antique dealers, using Cliff’s iconic designs to create wearable art.
Our jewellery designs stay true to Clarice Cliff's original aesthetic, capturing the essence of her Art Deco masterpieces. We use high-quality materials and expert craftsmanship to ensure each piece is both beautiful and enduring.
Clarice Cliff Pendants: £55-£99
Our collection of Clarice Cliff pendants are crafted from the finest silver, each piece in our collection reflecting the elegance and sophistication of the Art Deco era. The use of silver not only adds a timeless quality but also ensures durability and lasting beauty. These beautiful pieces each have a fragment of Clarice Cliff pottery featuring a range of colours. Clarice Cliff jewellery makes a perfect gift for lovers of this renowned ceramics artist or anyone who is an admirer of the Art Deco period.
Clarice Cliff Cufflinks: £105-£119
Inspired by Cliff's signature patterns and colour schemes, our cufflinks feature her intricate details and bold designs. Our Clarice Cliff cufflinks for men are made from pieces of pottery from her ‘Bizzare’ range.
Clarice Cliff Earrings: £55-99
Whether you're dressing up for a special occasion or adding a touch of elegance to your everyday look, our Clarice Cliff earrings are versatile enough to complement any outfit. By Cliff’s designs, we have been able to create a range of earrings which pay homage to her art, whilst also featuring many different shapes and patterns – perfect for the Art Deco lover in your life.
Clarice Cliff Ring: £60
We also have our Art Deco ring collection, featuring upcycled Clarice Cliff pottery as well. Much like our entire Clarice Cliff range, our rings have been meticulously reproduced from a limited edition by Wedgwood, giving new life to these classic designs.
How to Style Clarice Cliff Jewellery
Given the vibrant and distinctive aesthetic of the pieces, styling Clarice Cliff jewellery can be extremely fun. With so many bold, geometric and bright designs, jewellery made from her art can create a standout feature in any outfit.
Firstly, Clarice Cliff jewellery can work perfectly as a statement piece. If you are someone who likes jewellery to be the centrepiece of your outfit, our wonderfully bold necklaces, earrings and cufflinks will make that simple outfit shine.
But don’t let the colours scare you away! Even if you are someone who prefers a minimalist approach to jewellery, our Clarice Cliff jewellery collection combines such a variety of colours, that it’s easy to combine different pieces together. Also, with these pieces being cast in sterling silver, you can wear them every day without a fear of tarnishing. Clarice Cliff jewellery can be a means of personal expression. Her designs are so unique and artistic, so let your own style and personality shine through when wearing them.