David Elers

David Elers was an English potter active in the early 18th century, known for his innovative use of red stoneware. His pieces, often featuring molded floral and animal motifs, were inspired by Chinese redware, which he likely encountered during his travels to Holland. Elers's work is characterized by its deep red color, achieved through the use of iron oxide, and its highly polished surface. His signature technique of slip-trailing, where a thin layer of clay is applied to the surface and then carved, adds a unique visual appeal to his pieces. These techniques, along with his focus on functional ceramics, made Elers a significant figure in the development of English pottery, influencing the work of later potters like Josiah Wedgwood.