Whitefriars Sea Green Glass Bowl by William Wilson, 1950

A sculptural sea green glass bowl designed by William J. Wilson for Whitefriars, England, circa 1950s.

Pattern number 9335, the bowl features a broad, oval form with a gently flared rim, supported by an unusual lobed base. The softly rounded projections beneath the bowl create an organic, sculptural profile, contrasting with the smooth, uninterrupted surface of the glass.

Made in Whitefriars’ distinctive translucent sea green glass, the design demonstrates the growing influence of organic forms in British decorative arts during the postwar period.

The design dates from approximately 1949–1953 and was included in the Whitefriars catalogue of 1954.

Designer and Manufacturer

William J. Wilson was an influential British glass designer who joined James Powell & Sons, the company behind Whitefriars Glass, in 1928.

Wilson became managing director in 1950 and played an important role in the development of the company’s postwar designs, introducing more experimental forms and colours while maintaining its established glassmaking traditions.

Founded in London during the 17th century, Whitefriars was one of Britain’s longest-established glass manufacturers. The company moved to a purpose-built factory in Wealdstone, Middlesex, in 1923, where it continued producing decorative and functional glass until its closure in 1980.

Wilson’s designs from the late 1940s and 1950s are particularly recognisable for their organic forms, subtle asymmetry and use of coloured glass.

Condition

Vintage condition. Please refer to photographs for details.

Dimensions

Width: 29 cm

Depth: 21 cm

Height: 11.5 cm

Designer: William J. Wilson

Manufacturer: Whitefriars Glass

Pattern: No. 9335

Origin: England

Period: Circa 1950s