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Stoke's Iconic Ivy Returns: A Family Legacy Reborn
29 Jul
Summary
- George Wade revives iconic 'Ivy' figure from his family's ceramics history.
- The original 'Ivy' was created in 1951 for the Festival of Britain.
- Limited edition replicas will raise funds for The National Brain Appeal charity.
A significant piece of Stoke-on-Trent's ceramic heritage has been revived by George Wade, a descendant of the famous Wade Ceramics family. The iconic 'Ivy' figure, originally created in 1951 for the Festival of Britain, has been reimagined. Wade's newly formed company, George Wade & Son Ltd, has produced 51 limited-edition, eight-inch replicas of the beloved sculpture.
The initiative marks the 75th anniversary of the original 'Ivy's' creation. The larger-than-life original, standing over 1 meter tall, was a collaboration between sculptor Colin Melbourne and Wade's grandfather, Sir George Wade. Despite initial divided opinions, it became a symbol of post-war optimism.
These new replicas, made in Stoke-on-Trent, are being sold with all proceeds going to The National Brain Appeal. Wade expressed his pride in returning to the city, stating it feels "very special" to see 'Ivy' made there again, hoping this project signals a future of recreating more historical pieces.
