author

William Bemrose

1831–1908

Best remembered for writing about ceramics, wood-carving, and the painter Joseph Wright of Derby, this Victorian man of letters also helped shape Derby’s printing and porcelain world. His books reflect a practical eye, local pride, and a deep interest in English decorative art.

1 Audiobook

The Life and Works of Joseph Wright, A.R.A., commonly called "Wright of Derby"

The Life and Works of Joseph Wright, A.R.A., commonly called "Wright of Derby"

by William Bemrose

About the author

Born in Derby on December 30, 1831, he became known as a writer on wood-carving and pottery while also working in the family printing and publishing business, William Bemrose & Sons. He was closely connected with the cultural life of Derby and is also noted as a director of Royal Crown Derby.

His best-known books explored English ceramics and craftsmanship, including studies of Derbyshire pottery and porcelain from Bow, Chelsea, Derby, and Longton Hall. He also wrote and published a biography of the artist Joseph Wright of Derby, helping preserve the reputation of one of the city’s most important painters.

William Bemrose died on August 6, 1908. Reliable sources confirmed his career and dates, but I could not confirm a suitable clear portrait from the pages I checked, so no profile image is included.