Censer - where ancient craftsmanship meets contemporary design

Designer Edward John Milton of EJM Studio has joined forces with Ketley Brick to create Censer, a reimagining of the ancient incense holder that celebrates the dialogue between tradition and contemporary design.
Drawing inspiration from the thurible, a sacred vessel with centuries of cultural significance, Censer can serve as a sculptural centrepiece or be suspended and gently swung, diffusing aromatic smoke to evoke a meditative, immersive atmosphere.
Made from dense Etruria marl clay, Censer is crafted in three distinctive tones born out of Ketley’s natural kiln-firing processes. These traditional techniques ensure an organic depth of colour that no artificial surface treatment can replicate.
Its creation brings together centuries-old ceramic practices and advanced moulding technology, which requires precision-engineered moulds capable of capturing intricate design elements while still allowing the clay to be removed intact.
Edward said, “Partnering with a 220-year-old manufacturer to transform one of the world’s oldest natural materials into something that is culturally resonant yet boldly contemporary has been an inspiring experience.
“The Ketley team developed innovative solutions that enabled us to craft a design object that has a material authenticity and cultural relevance that speaks both of the past and the present.”
Richard Dyer, Commercial Director at Ketley Brick said: “We have a proven track record of helping designers and architects turn their visions into reality. The making of Censer has allowed us to further refine our processes and push the boundaries of clay and mould technology.”
Censer will be on show on the Ketley stand 135 at the Surface Design Show, along alongside a selection of the company’s latest design innovations.
These will include intricate designs created by etching onto the surface of clay products, as well as unusual shapes and sizes from extruded clay, bespoke embossed patterns and pressed shapes, along with Ketley’s standard range of rectangular bricks, Roman-style Linium Bricks, pavers, and quarry tiles.
For more information about Ketley Brick contact: www.ketley-brick.co.uk, sales@ketley-brick.co.uk or call 01384 78361