PLATTER: WEMBLEY WARE, LOBSTER, GREY

Wembley Ware was a range of decorative glazed ceramics manufactured at the Bristile factory in Subiaco, Western Australia, between 1946 and 1961. Known for its distinctive lustre glazes, vibrant colours and sculptural designs, Wembley Ware became one of Australia's largest ranges of commercially produced decorative ceramics during the 1950s.

The factory was originally established by Calyx Porcelain in 1921 and was taken over by Brisbane & Wunderlich Ltd in 1941. Following the Second World War, the factory underwent significant modernisation and expansion, with production reaching full capacity by 1953. During this period, the company introduced its 'Fancy Ware Range', marketed as Wembley Ware, which was sold throughout Australia and New Zealand.

Wembley Ware combined decorative designs with practical functions, producing a wide range of household and novelty items, including ashtrays, vases, dishes, bookends, shaving mugs and card holders. Many pieces featured highly lustrous glazes and raised sculptural decorations depicting animals, marine life and other motifs. Their functional purpose also allowed the products to avoid taxes applied to purely decorative wares.

George Clausen is credited with providing creative direction and encouraging the factory's modellers and artists. Notable artisans included John Tribe (1904–1974), responsible for many of the more elaborate designs, and ceramic artist Ruby Neevay (1925–2012), who began working for Brisbane & Wunderlich at the age of 15.

Production of Wembley Ware ceased in 1961, although ceramic manufacturing continued at the Subiaco factory, which was renamed Australian Fine China in 1992.