Sarah Jane Roberts – otherwise known as Aunt Sal - was an artist who has entered the portals of history as one of Wales’ greatest ceramics designers.

During the 40 years that she spent working at the Llanelli potteries,  she developed the cockerel plate, which has become one of the most iconic images in Welsh fine art. 

It depicts the single blue cockerel surrounded by a continuous floral border with its unique and distinctive style, and each cockerel plate varies with smudges and mis-centred decorations which all add to the appeal.

Nineteenth century pottery workers, however, were exposed to high quantities of lead and mineral dust which were used in the glazes and this made them susceptible to conditions such as lead poisoning and silicosis.

It’s possible that this was the reason for the wasting illnesses that killed Sarah Jane Roberts and her two sisters who worked alongside her at the pottery.

Llanelli Pottery began production in 1839 and continued until 1922, outlasting all other Welsh ceramic companies. 

At its height, the company employed several hundred people.  Sadly, nothing remains of the site, except for a blue plaque marking the spot near the shopping centre pf where this impressive pottery once stood.

The other well-known decorator at Llanelli was Samuel Walter Shufflebotham who was employed at the pottery between 1908 and 1915.

Next month Welsh pottery enthusiasts will be given the chance to view some of Aunt Sal’s works at Llandeilo Antiques and Vintage fair when Alistair and Helen Crawford will be displaying their impressive collection of rare Llanelli pottery. 

Naturally, this will include a fine range of Sarah Jane Roberts’ work.

Llandeilo Antiques and Vintage Fair has gained a reputation for its wide range of Welsh antiques, artefacts and textiles including Welsh blankets.

The fair takes place at Llandeilo Civic Hall on Saturday, April 2. 

The doors open at 10am and admission is £1.  Homemade refreshments will be available throughout the day.

Meanwhile, a Ukraine humanitarian collection organised by Llandeilo Fair recently raised over £900  which will go towards the cost of buying three ambulances and medical equipment for the people of Ukraine.