Lot 132: Three Potters at their wheels ; and Inside the Potteries

JOHN EYRE, R.B.A., R.I., (BRITISH, 1850-1927)
Three Potters at their wheels; and Inside the Potteries
each signed and dated 'J Eyre. R.I. 1919' (lower left)
pencil and watercolour heightened with white
16¾ x 21 in. (42.5 x 53.3 cm.)
a pair (2)

John Eyre (1850-1927) was born in Stoke-on-Trent, his father being a decorative artist in the Potteries. He studied art in South Kensington, and in his later years was made an Honorary Associate of the Royal College of Art. In his earlier years Mr. Eyre devoted himself chiefly to the design and decoration of pottery, first for the firm of Minton, and later as art director to Doulton of Lambeth.
In 1877 he exhibited his first picture at the Royal Academy, subsequently becoming a frequent exhibitor at Burlington House.
John Eyre was a member of the Royal Society of British Artists and was elected to the Royal Institute of Painters in Watercolours in 1917.
His most successful works are considered to be his depictions of Chelsea Hospital and its veterans, two examples of which are sold here.