Archibald Knox for Liberty’s Celtic Style ‘Beowulf’ Planter

An early 20^th century Arts and Crafts style Celtic planter and pedestal in terracotta after a design for Liberty’s London (stamped) by celebrated designer Archibald Knox.

Titled ‘Beowulf’, this large Celtic plant pot designed by Knox was manufactured for Liberty’s by J. Carter and Co, as is stamped on the socle. Carters made stone garden ware and terracotta for Liberty between 1900 and 1910.

Often unstamped, Celtic style planters like these are often mistakenly attributed to the Compton Pottery. However, we can be certain that this one was made for the luxury department store in London due to the ‘Liberty & Co’ stamp on the inside.

Archibald Knox

Archibald Knox (1864-1933) was a pioneer of modern 20^th century design. He was Liberty’s primary designer at the height of their success during the early 20^th century, his balance of Arts and Crafts, Modernism, Celtic Revival and Art Nouveau style influencing both British and international design. When employed by Liberty’s in 1899, Knox was tasked with designing the department store’s Celtic style silver and pewter ranges, before moving onto terracotta garden ornaments as well as patterns for carpet, wallpaper and fabric. The ‘Beowulf’ planter is one of Knox’s earliest designs, depicting a simple knot inspired by ancient Celtic crosses.

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Additional Dimensions

Height 53 cm

Width (widest part) 53 cm

Inside diameter 38.5 cm

Inside height 24 cm

Diameter of base socle 36.5 cm