Election vase

This stoneware vase commemorates the 1880 general election in which Leeds elected two Liberal MPs. This vase celebrates John Barran who received 23674 votes.

John Barran was a clothing manufacturer who was born in Surrey. In 1845 he opened a tailoring and clothes dealing shop at Bridge End, establishing a reputation for boys clothing and earning the epithet 'the little boys tailor'. This business also served as a pawnbroker. In 1856 he kick started the Leeds ready made menswear industry by building a factory on Alfred St equipped with sewing machines and bandknives, the latter his own invention. In 1860 with tailor Herman Friend he adopted the 'divisional system' to simplify production of suits and jackets and reduce costs by employing outworkers. In 1879 he built a grand warehouse on St Pauls Square.

John Barran was Mayor of Leeds from 1870-72. Whilst mayor he negotiated the purchase of Roundhay Park. He served as Liberal M.P for Leeds between 1876 and 1885. In 1895 he became the 1st Baronet Barran of Chapel Allerton Hall.

The vase base is impressed "DOULTON LAMBETH 1882".