Smith and Wright Mudlarked Button Earrings

Historical Information

Type: Button
Fabric: Brass
Date: Late 19th Century
Find Location: Essex, UK

Extra Information:

Smith and Wright Limited, a prominent button manufacturing company based in Birmingham, traces its origins to the early 19th century. The firm began as Smith and Kemp, with records indicating that John Skirrow Wright joined the company in 1838.

By 1850, Wright had become a partner, and following John Kemp’s departure in 1861, the company was rebranded as Smith and Wright. Throughout the 19th century, they were recognized for producing military uniform buttons and various ornamental items. The company operated from multiple addresses in Birmingham, including Brearley Street, and also had premises at Aldermanbury, EC, London.

In the early 20th century, Smith and Wright Limited was absorbed by Firmin & Sons, another esteemed name in the button manufacturing industry. Today, artifacts bearing the Smith and Wright mark—such as military buttons—are preserved in collections including those of the Science Museum Group and the McCord Museum, reflecting the company’s historical significance in the decorative arts and military regalia sectors.

The findings on these earrings are Stainless Steel and the piece of pottery is coated in resin for protection and preservation.