"Enfin, die werkt zal eten, en daarom maar vol ijver door": Brouwers Fabriek van Aarden Vaatwerk 1901-1905

Abstract

This dissertation describes the early success of the earthenware factory of W.C. Brouwer (1877-1933) during its first four years of operation. Until now research into the daily practice and the interaction between producer, customer and private purchaser, has been an underexplored part of research into the New Art around 1900. Four copying books of outgoing correspondence were studied, which Brouwer kept between 1901 and 1905. In the studio of his brother-in-law J.A. Loebèr, Brouwer was trained as a decorative artist. He chose the art of pottery and started a workshop in Zoeterwoude in 1901 where he produced artisanal hand-turned objects, distinguished by a completely unique design, color and decoration.

The core chapters describe the exhibitions of arts and crafts in which Brouwer participated, and provide an overview of shops and art dealers who took an interest in his work. Entrepreneurship was Brouwer's forte, manifesting itself in creative thinking, courage and remaining focused on goals. When he was given the opportunity to supply a large quantity of terracotta building ware for the The Hague Peace Palace, he took on this challenge, regardless of the enormous risks involved in this undertaking. Eventually this saved his business that suffered from declining pottery sales.