WILLIAMSBURG x Maryfrances Carter: Bring History Home
As part of my collaboration with the WILLIAMSBURG brand of Colonial Williamsburg, I’m pleased to share a behind-the-scenes look at one of their latest product collaborators—artist Maryfrances Carter. Inspired by the archives of Colonial Williamsburg, Carter’s collection reflects her appreciation for the colonial era and a passion for timeless, artisan design—ideal for decor enthusiasts who cherish history and craftsmanship.
Photo: Colonial Williamsburg
Maryfrances Carter’s fascination with the colonial period began in childhood during visits to Colonial Williamsburg, where she found inspiration in the everyday artistry of the 18th century. She recalls, “Visiting as a child sparked my fascination with the craftsman way of life…This collection is a recreation of history in the present, celebrating the daily life and artistry of the past.” Her collection beautifully captures this admiration, honoring the spirit of colonial artisans with pieces inspired by rare artifacts.
Photo: Courtesy of Maryfrances Carter
One standout piece from Carter’s collection is based on a rare pearlware lantern dating back to around 1805 and crafted in England, possibly in Bristol or Yorkshire. This lantern is an extraordinary artifact, as only three examples of this specific form are known to survive. While most lanterns of the time were crafted in metal, this one is made of pearlware, a type of ceramic that was popular in the 18th and 19th centuries due to its semi-transparent, blue-tinted glaze that mimicked porcelain.
The trapezoidal shape and craftsmanship of this lantern demonstrate the ingenuity of artisans of that time. The lantern’s structure is inspired by tinned sheet iron lanterns—common household items that were sturdy and practical. But in this piece, the ceramic body not only provided an alternative to metal but also offered a delicate and artistic aesthetic suited to display.
A fascinating feature of this lantern is its pierced candle ejectors—three decorative holes in the front of the candleholder, which allow the user to easily extract a candle stub. This functional design helped make candle replacement simpler in a time when candles were the primary source of light in homes. The lantern also includes an oxygen vent at the top and an interior reflective surface to help project light more effectively.
Colonial Williamsburg’s Curator of Ceramics and Glass, Angelika Kuettner, notes the rarity of such ceramic pieces: “Given their fragile nature, very few ceramic lanterns survive. This lantern is a rare gem from the 1800s, preserving the craftsmanship of the time.” These lanterns were often replaced by oil lamps by the 1820s, making this piece a unique window into a specific historical moment before oil lighting became widespread.
Maryfrances Carter’s collaboration with the WILLIAMSBURG brand breathes new life into these artifacts, allowing modern admirers to experience a connection to early American life through her historically inspired designs. Her work with the archives—including time spent examining books, ceramics, and textiles—allowed her to translate elements from these treasured artifacts into her own creations, making them accessible for today’s home.
The WILLIAMSBURG x Maryfrances Carter collection is live. This exclusive release is the perfect way to bring a piece of history into your home.