Coade stone was an artificial stone used to cast sculptures and garden ornaments. It is named after Eleanor Coade (1733-1821) who in 1769 bought an artificial stone manufacturing company and set about improving the product and dominating the British market. The stone has proved to be longer lasting than much natural stonework and over 650 pieces have been recorded still in use. Coade stone comprised 60-70% ball clay from Devon and Dorset, 10% crushed soda lime glass, 5-10% fine quartz, 5-10% crushed flint and 10% grog (crushed shards of pottery).
The examples shown here are part of a garden arch at Croome Court, Worcestershire, and date from 1797.
photos © T. Boughen Camera: Nikon Z 5
