The Sower

Conrad Dressler, 1856-1940

circa 1896

Ceramic relief

31 1/2 x 23 inches (80 x 58 cm)

Della Robbia Pottery, Birkenhead (maker)

A co-founder of the Della Robbia Pottery in 1894, alongside Harold Rathbone, Dressler concentrated on architectural ceramics and plaques. His inability to get on with Rathbone and the relative lack of success of this side of the venture resulted in Dressler's departure by 1897. He was wedded to the use of local materials and labour, often being influenced by his surroundings in choice of subject matter. Dressler went on to found the Medmenham Pottery in Buckinghamshire.

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