By Christine Swan
In May 2023. Dennis Severs’ House was transformed for a few weeks for an exhibition of Simon Pettet’s beautiful reproduction Delftware ceramics. It was a sad time in my life but still wanted to celebrate the work of this incredible young man.
Simon was much younger than Dennis Severs but they seemed to be a good match. Dennis was setting about restoring his Spitalfields property into the grand vision of a Georgian Huguenot silkweaver’s house, but doing so on limited means, but ensuring that he had a very good time while doing it. Dennis wanted authentic looking ceramics, and this was something that Simon threw himself into and designed to perfection.
Flat-backed vases designed for display rather than function
The exhibition was a glorious celebration of Simon’s unique and incredible skill. For it, the house was flooded with light as curtains and blinds were pulled back to give ample natural light for visitors to explore every detail of the exhibits. Each item was displayed on a bright yellow plinth, which contrasted beautifully with the blue and white ceramics. A catalogue was available for visitors to learn more about each piece, its purpose and origins.
A pair of shoes too beautiful for feet
From stately obelisks, to delicate tulipieres, to clever flat-backed pieces, designed to be displayed on shelves, and Delftware shoes that are too beautiful to ever don a real foot, Simon’s talent, faithful reproduction, and wit, shines through in every piece.
Delicate tulipieres protected in their glass cases
One of Simon’s most unique installations is the fireplace setting in Dennis’ bedroom. Each tile is unique and tells a story of local people and infamous events. The set are designed to be looked at closely, and read, like a cartoon strip, but, step back, unfocus your eyes, and it becomes a classic Delft fireplace.
The fireplace tiles have a story to tell….or two!
Simon made everything – from tiles to plates, vases to mugs. The latter, arranged in a row on the kitchen window sill, each with a motto, stood out to me. So ordinary an item, yet made with such care. ” It is a lonely thing, washing a man’s shirt without him in it”.
A row of mugs on the kitchen windowsill
As I stood looking at the row of mugs, one of the hosts commented that Simon’s A level Art teacher had recently visited the exhibition. I believe that she left some photographs. What a wonderful talent she had fostered. She would doubtless never have considered that he would die just ten years later, of HIV AIDS. The tragedy of another young life gone, was almost too much.
Every piece is personal and perfect
I drew a deep breath. We should be thankful, for Simon Pettet’s brilliant talent and for all that he left for us to enjoy and marvel at. I am going to visit Delft in the Netherlands in a few week’s time, and when I do, I will remember these delicate and beautiful reproductions, and their creator.
More information
Dennis Severs’ House – https://www.dennissevershouse.co.uk/
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