Summary

'Colonnade No.1 Boot Bazaar' bowl, manufactured by British Anchor Pottery, England, and decorated with an image of Leeming's Melbourne Boot Store, circa 1885.

The Leeming's Boot Store provides a visually rich record of retail advertising in late 19th century Melbourne. William Leeming apparently arrived in Melbourne from Yorkshire in 1853 and established Leeming's in 1885, founding arguably Victoria's most advertised bootery. The Leeming's 'Gazeeka' character (a winged frog or goblin) has become known as a significant character in the history of Australian consumer art.

Physical Description

Decorated shallow bowl with broad rim, monochrome transfer printed decoration in brown. Crazing in the glaze but limited associated staining. Design features decorative floral border around rim, and image of a Victorian corner shop building with arched windows and a cast iron veranda (Leeming's Boot Store) in the centre. There are small figures visible standing in front of the shop, and numerous pairs of shoes displayed in the shop windows.

More Information