Research
From R.O. Clark’s experimental field tiles to rose-patterned Crown Lynn teacups, explore West Auckland’s clay history using our online collection of over 8000 objects.
Search the collection
For effective searching, use a single word (e.g., cup or Narvik), a phrase in quotation marks (e.g., "egg cup"), or combine keywords with AND in capitals (e.g., bird AND cup).
The Collection
The collection includes examples of most types of ceramics produced by Crown Lynn over its 40 year history, as well as tools and machinery involved in its manufacture, and an archive of documents, photographs and designs relating to the company. The collection of objects spans from the 1940s to the 1980s and clearly demonstrates the advances in manufacturing techniques developed by Crown Lynn over that period as well as changes in fashion and design.
Richard Quinn Collection:
The Richard Quinn Collection makes up the body of Te Toi Uku’s object and archival collections. Acquired in 2005, this collection includes a vast array of objects produced by Crown Lynn, the machinery used in Crown Lynn’s (and associated companies) production, and extensive archival documents which detail the company’s management.
Jack / J.T. / John Diamond Collection:
Jack T. Diamond was a prominent local historian and archeologist in West Auckland through the mid to late 20th century. An avid photographer, Diamond is responsible for a large portion of the photographic documentation of West Auckland’s industrial history. Throughout his life, Diamond amassed a substantial collection of marked bricks and brick-making tools – many of which were donated to Te Toi Uku in 2016.
Valerie Ringer Monk Collection:
Valerie Ringer Monk is one of the most important authorities on Crown Lynn. The author of two books on the topic, and an avid collector, Val Monk has donated several special objects to Te Toi Uku over the years - many of which feature in her published work.
Explore the Valerie Ringer Monk Collection >>
Studio Ceramics Collection:
Studio Ceramics, known for bold colours and quintessential Kiwiana designs, was a commercial pottery company based in Ward Street, New Lynn from the mid-198os. Set up by Christine Harris and Malcolm Johnstone, Studio Ceramics had close ties to Crown Lynn – namely through the employment of ex-factory manager Chris Harvey, and the transfer of many employees, equipment, and shape moulds after Crown Lynn’s closure in 1989.
Waitakere City Council Collection:
Donated in 2010, The Waitakere City Council Collection is comprised of predominantly industrial paraphernalia, including various pieces of pipe-making equipment, brick stamps, and miscellaneous shards from across West Auckland’s brickworks.
Carl Larsen Collection:
Carl Larsen is a long-time collector of Crown Lynn and is passionate about its history. Carl has generously donated several objects to the Museum, notably some very special pieces by Frank Carpay – one of Crown Lynn’s early designers.
Donate to the Collection
Do you have an object or piece of archival material you would like to donate to us? Please get in touch via info@tetoiuku.org.nz, or give us a call on 09 827 7349.
Te Toi Uku’s collection is focused primarily on objects and archival material related to Crown Lynn Potteries, but also includes those related to West Auckland’s wider clay industry. We are also open to donations of objects which illustrate these industry’s continued legacies.