Ball Pestle with Flat Mortar

Created in 2013 by sculptor and designer Julian Sainsbury, John Julian is a pottery studio based in rural Wiltshire, England. Julian, frustrated with the limitations of mass manufacturing, sought to create a workshop where tradition and sustainability meet modern design. The studio specializes in handmade tableware, serveware, and kitchenware crafted in small batches by skilled artisans, ensuring each piece is a true work of art.

Julian’s early career as a sculptor shaped his minimalist aesthetic, blending classical influences with functional design. His pestle and mortars quickly became iconic, prompting him to establish his own studio for full creative control. Every John Julian piece, from plates and bowls to kitchen tools, is either hand-thrown on a potter’s wheel or formed on a jolley machine, reflecting the care and precision of its maker. The result is durable, timeless ceramics designed to become cherished heirlooms.

Sustainability is central to John Julian’s ethos. By single-firing porcelain at high temperatures, the studio minimizes energy use while ensuring strength and longevity. Imperfect pieces are sold as Seconds to reduce waste, and environmentally friendly packaging is used throughout. As a member of the British Ceramic Confederation, the studio actively works toward net-zero emissions.

Enjoy the full range of John Julian ceramics at the WLLW Shop.