ONE of the biggest private collections of Middlesbrough’s famous 19th century pottery will be auctioned in the region next month.

Hundreds of pieces from the renowned Linthorpe Art Pottery will feature in Thomas Watson’s Winter Antiques Catalogue Sale in Darlington on December 6.

Linthorpe Art Pottery only existed from 1879 to 1889 but during this ten-year period it produced some of the finest pieces of art pottery of the 19th century, which are now highly prized by collectors across the globe.

Much of its success was due to its connections with the world-famous Victorian designer Christopher Dresser whose work ranks highly alongside his contemporaries in the arts and crafts movement such as William Morris.

Several items designed by Christopher Dresser are included in the collection, which has been inherited and built up over the years by Mr Tyrer Kidd of Seaton Hall.

This historic house is soon to undergo major renovation lasting several years and Mr Kidd has decided to sell the collection rather than put it into storage.

Mr Kidd said: “Collecting Linthorpe pottery is a slow process due to the fact it was made for such a short period, well over a century ago.

“They tend to be prized exhibits in museums or held in private collections and are rarely sold.

“This sale provides a unique opportunity for people to start a collection or add to an existing one and I hope the pieces provide much enjoyment to those who appreciate their beautiful designs and vibrant glazes.”

David Elstob, auctioneer and valuer at Thomas Watson, said it was “fantastic” to have the collection in the sale.

He added: “Single pieces of Linthorpe always generate plenty of interest locally but to have so many examples is very unusual.

“We are expecting the size of the collection, especially as it contains pieces with the all-important Christopher Dresser signature, to have far wider appeal attracting bids from all over the world via the Internet.”

The collection itself is divided into 43 separate lots, with some containing several items, and include a wide range of vases, jugs, cups, saucers and bowls.

Guide price estimates range from £30-£50 for a jardiniere up to £600-£800 for a collection of tea wares in the manner of Christopher Dresser.

The sale itself starts at 10am.