xin Wedgwood's Artistic Work 131 



and at length Bentley resigned his position at Liverpool 

 in favour of Boardman. 



Wedgwood desired Bentley to reside at Etruria, in 

 order that he should become thoroughly initiated in the 

 affairs of the firm. Bentley went first to London to 

 look after the state of the agency there ; and meanwhile 

 his house at Etruria was proceeded with, until it was 

 nearly ready for occupation. But Bentley never took 

 possession of the house ; his presence in London being 

 considered more necessary for the progress of the firm. 



From the date of his recovery, Wedgwood became 

 more and more absorbed in the details of his business. 

 He strove to introduce the highest art in the production 

 of earthenware. The drawings burnt in upon the 

 edges of the plates and dishes were greatly improved. 

 Wedgwood desired to foster and create a taste for 

 works of art. He employed Stothard and other artists 

 to design for him, and some of their works were of a 

 very superior character. 



At the same time Wedgwood made many improve- 

 ments in the form and material of his productions, 

 especially in his vases, the demand for which became 

 very great. He was constantly making inquiries about 

 new clays for the improvement of his wares. 



In 1768, Wedgwood despatched his traveller Griffiths 

 to South Carolina, for the purpose of procuring some 

 very precious white porcelain clay which, he under- 

 stood, was to be obtained in that quarter. The voyage 

 proved a perilous one. Violent storms pursued the 



