Instantly recognisable, the fine china blue pottery with white relief designs of Wedgwood have been for many as much a part of Kiwi and English family tradition as the tea poured into the cups.
To celebrate this connection, more than 70 items from the Southland Museum and Art Gallery’s Wedgwood collection will be displayed at the He Waka Tuia from today.
It includes plates celebrating the wedding of Charles and Diana and the jubilee of Elizabeth.
He Waka Tuia manager Sarah Brown said many people had a personal story with Wedgwood.
"Wedgwood is the kind of pottery which people are very familiar with — it is quite nostalgic for people because they can remember from when they were growing up.
"So we are hoping people will come and have this feeling."
He Waka Tuia curator Katie Green said the exhibition explores the popularity and the history of the brand since its creation by Josiah Wedgwood in 1759.
"Josiah Wedgwood, when he was making the company, he really impressed Queen Charlotte.
"He impressed her so much that he became royal potter for the Queen and now, even in the modern day, in 1975, Queen Elizabeth II actually gave the Wedgwood company, which is run by his descendants, the royal warrant."
She said the timing of the exhibition was a coincidence as the team was already planning to exhibit the collection before the death of Queen Elizabeth II in September.
"But I think it will bring people a bit closer to the stuff we are exhibiting here."
As part of the exhibition, the art space would also be promoting a High Tea at the space so people can catch up with friends and share their stories while enjoying the exhibition.
The Wedgwood and The Queen's Visit, Invercargill 1954 exhibitions will run until November 27.
