How to Check Ceramics for Damage, Restoration & Wear (Part 1)
Buying antique pottery and ceramics can be a risky process. It’s all too easy to get home and find that you’ve missed a hairline crack, a restored handle or one of the hundreds of other faults that might
exist.
While there is nothing wrong with choosing to buy ceramics in less than perfect condition, I am sure that you, like I do, prefer to know about it beforehand and make sure the price paid reflects the condition.
Poor saleroom and fair lighting, inaccurate descriptions and even unscrupulous dealers can all combine to make buying safely harder than it should be.
To help you avoid these pitfalls, we’ve put together a guide to checking ceramics – from identity and authenticity through to checking for damage, restoration and wear.
We’ve divided this guide into two parts:
Part 1 – Checking the authenticity and identity of a piece
Part 2 – Inspecting a piece for faults, damage, wear and restoration
1. What is it?
Sounds obvious, but is the piece you are looking at what it’s being sold as?
Check that the shape, pattern and pottery markings are all consistent with each other and with the piece itself. Mis-described and incorrectly marked (when manufactured) pieces aren’t unknown, although
they are uncommon.
Don’t be afraid to dig out a pattern guide or reference book to check a pattern or shape number – no one remembers them all!
Once you are happy with the authenticity of the piece, check it is complete.
Should it have a lid, frog (for flowers), detachable handle (e.g. biscuit barrels) or perhaps an accompanying spoon, knife or box?
It’s a case of caveat emptor, I’m afraid – you need to think about what you’re seeing and ask any questions before you buy. Any reputable dealer should be happy (and able) to explain why something is the way
it is.
2. Have The Years Left Their Mark?
It should always be apparent if a piece has some “age” or not. Even if it is in immaculate condition and has been stored away from bright light, dust and dirt, it should still feel old.
This is a hard one to describe – but if unsure look for small details:
- Do the pottery markings look old?
- Is the base a little worn/dirty where it has stood on different surfaces?
- Is there any crazing?
- Is there any dirt, discolouration or wear? Look in nooks and crannies or where lids, etc. fit on the main body
If you’ve been through each of the checks I’ve descrbed, you should now have a fairly good idea of the identity and authenticity of your piece – and you will probably already have noticed any obvious damage
or restoration to it.
To learn more about how to spot and understand damage, wear and restoration, check out Part 2 of this post by clicking on the link below:
Part 2 – Inspecting a piece for faults, damage, wear and restoration
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Pingback by Perfect Pieces » Blog Archive » How to Check Ceramics for Damage, Restoration & Wear (Part 2) — January 24, 2008 @ 12:06 am
Hello
I have aquired a dragon piece of pottery but unable to to see if it a collectable or an antique (it may be neither) it is two dragons in a cracked egg and the piece itself is very heavy it has a mark of a circle with the letter c inside and engraved in it is 98W.UI. Is it possible that you could help me locate the maker.
Your help would be greatly appreciated
Regards
Ann Cooper
Comment by Ann Cooper — February 3, 2008 @ 2:29 pm
Hi I have a dinnerset with the markings of Senior England numbe 1257 it is my Mother in laws, which has been pssed down to her, it will be over 80 years old is it possible to value?
Comment by s ovenden — May 24, 2008 @ 4:39 pm
Have acquired a pendelfin piece and there is a sticker stating Poppet on the bottom, Can’t find any info as to date on this little guy….we acquired 3 pieces of bunnykins also from this senior and are wanting to give her some value for our purchase however….really have no clue to pay her…Could you and or would you be willing to enlighten me….Marie
Comment by Marie Cunningham, — July 29, 2008 @ 11:35 pm
hello i have a glazed flower bowl it has M.A.L and daly on the under neath it also has something else written on it but i carnt work that out can u help?
Comment by sara — August 18, 2008 @ 3:08 pm
Hi, I recently bought a small Jasperware blue bowl with scenes of what look like greyhounds and trees. The markings say ‘Jasper Ware Made In England From 1800′. There is also a letter ‘Y’ stamped in the bottom. Please can you tell me how I can tell if this is a valuable item or if it is a copy?
Many thanks
Avril
Comment by Avril — September 2, 2008 @ 9:22 am
I have inherited a mint sauce jug & saucer from my Grandma – SylvaC number 4683, it is green with no chips/cracks but very slight crazing on the saucer. Is there any way of finding out how much it’s worth? I have 3 young children, and would hate for them to break it – also for insurance purposes.
Thanks
Comment by Melanie — September 16, 2008 @ 3:23 pm
Hi there I was left by my grandmother a Beswick shell shaped vase. It has the number 1186 on the bottom and is all white glazed.
I can’t seem to find out much about it except it was made after 1936 according to the way it says Beswick with a line under it and the word ware under the line and the W of the word WARE going into the line. Under that it says made in England and above the Beswick it is stamped into the base 1186
Please can any one tell when it was made and how much it might be worth
thanks for any help you can provide
Many thanks Peter
Comment by Peter Button — September 29, 2008 @ 11:51 pm
Can anyone tell me a ‘Basic’ site where I can look up an A to Z on English Studio potters, 20th cent & no fees, I’m new to this. Thanks sueg
Comment by Sue Gee — October 14, 2008 @ 6:38 am
See our Identifing Pottery Marks section for a free illustrated guide to the backstamps and marks used by many of the well-known and collectable potteries.
Thanks, Tess
Comment by Tess — October 14, 2008 @ 8:51 am
[...] not check out our How to Check Ceramics for Damage, Restoration & Wear guide to help you on your [...]
Pingback by Inspecting Ceramics - How to check for damage & restoration - Perfect Pieces — November 2, 2008 @ 3:38 pm
I have a Poole owl
about 5 inches tall with
an initial in circle
underneath. It looks like
an S and a B. I would
appreciate any
information.
Comment by Maureen — November 14, 2008 @ 9:48 am
Hi
I have a very old bowl with interesting basic design. I bought this about 15 years ago from a car boot sale. It has no markings whatsoever to indicate where it was made or who made it? Does this mean it is an ‘amateur’ piece?
Comment by Michele — November 21, 2008 @ 1:45 pm
Hello
I have a Macintyre Buslem Pot with a picture of the cricketer Ranjit Singh. The identity mark is either L 519W or L G19W. There are 2 “R” No’s the printed one is
29(?)287 and a written one 319664. The pot is unblemished apart from the gold around the top being a little faded.
Are you able to give me any information and possibly a valuation?
many thanks
Stuart Bishop
Comment by stuart — November 23, 2008 @ 9:50 am
Can anyone tell me about this plate? Signed S F & Co (know this is Fielding, Stoke on Trent) with number of 516771 (0140) with crown print and GLEN underneath.
Comment by sue w — January 6, 2009 @ 7:58 pm
I have a jug inherited from an Aunt who was married in 1924 c. and may well have been a wedding present. It is marked with the heavier stamp on you home page- Crown symbol and CROWN DUCAL WARE ENGLAND. There is a an indentation which I cannot fully read but starts with VICT ?????. There is a brown printed number A1168, a blue capital A and a character which looks like a P or the enclosed hilt of a sword. The jug is approx 21cms tall and almost 18cms from handle to lip (horizontally). The decoration features an exotic bird with long tail feathers alighting on a bush with spiky seedheads and a second small bird flying off towards the rim. On the back is a golden butterfly on a similar branch. The whole shows not sign of damage and seems remarkably clean, unused but regularly dusted! I’d like to know more about it.
Comment by patrick clements — January 22, 2009 @ 11:50 am
Crown Ducal – Sunburst 2649 No 780264 with a 5 on the back
I have been told it is a salad bowl the bowl has holes in for drain and a plate underneath. very pretty piece. cream with hand painted orange and yellow flowers Not sure of the date. It was bought in 1984
Comment by A, B Bernard — February 10, 2009 @ 10:41 am
Beech & Hancock (I think).
My wife recently purchased a fruit bowl with the following mark: -
Picture of a swan, the name LORNE in a scroll and the letters B&H.
It is in immaculate condition and I’m trying to establish its possible age?
Comment by Tony parker — February 19, 2009 @ 8:16 am
I have two wade figurens date early 1930s, one is called jose the other sunshine
perfect condition apart from s bit of colour fadeing are they worth nything
regards carl
Comment by carl manditsch — March 9, 2009 @ 4:40 pm
I have a large, Jug 10ins wide x 8ins aprox,its has green leaf effect flowing from the top, onto a goldish centre, and a torquise bottom, it has the Marks 129/1 made in england on it. there is no makers name.
Comment by Martin — March 27, 2009 @ 9:38 am
i have a kensington vase yellow with brown and red leaf staffordshire knot back stamp with letter b on would like price please
Comment by margaret clarke — March 30, 2009 @ 9:56 am
I have a small tureen 18cm long 12 wide with a green design. K & Co B (i.e. Keeling & Co. Burslem c. 1886-1936). LATE MAYERS. FLORA. Picture of kneeling potter and the letter F. Any idea what date this is, and what is its value, if any?
Comment by Mrs Sawyer — March 30, 2009 @ 11:56 am
My mother has a light green Sylvac jug with the number 1344.It is undamaged and
would like value please?
Comment by Mrs Jolley — April 9, 2009 @ 4:55 pm
hi i have a small vase wich was left in a flat i moved into in the 80s after an elderly lady passed away. its multi coloured green/turquise/purple. not quite sure what it is but the markings underneath are numbers 70719 or that could be 707/9 not quite sure. is there anything u can tell me about this vase and its worth. thank you.
Comment by sharon morgan — April 22, 2009 @ 1:13 pm
Hello. My son has a vase that is very similar to troika. It , however – doesnt have the troika mark – but has 2 other marks. On the right are 3 circles , inside a square. The smaller mark is difficult to see , but looks like B on its side..We would very much like to know the maker of this vase. Many thanks..
Comment by Tulie Richardson — April 27, 2009 @ 9:05 pm
I have a Radford vase yellowish in color with flowers that are purple and pink,about 12 inches tall,also has the radford stamp and initial markings,in perfect conditon…trying to find out it’s worth of value.
Comment by Dawne McGuire — April 29, 2009 @ 5:47 pm
have vase with markings 15 poole england AW looks like delphis vase can u give me any more info ta
Comment by caroline davies — May 1, 2009 @ 5:23 pm
i have been left a royal worcester piece of a little girl with a lamb,on the bottom it says 3416 april. can you give any information on this. thank you a barker
Comment by annette barker — May 18, 2009 @ 9:50 am
Hi I found a ceramic bowl about 8″ in dia. with an owl painted inside dated 1948, artist may be spelled Mang, title called “Apache Mission” with a # 85643. I have not been able to identify who the artist is and where it came from. Being as old as the date says it is, I was surprised to find it in a yard sale. I have taken photo,s of the piece. Can send a pic if anyone would like to see it. I don,t know where to go to look up something like this, so if anyone knows of a site , please let me know.
Thanks in advance, any insight would be appreciated.
Mike P.
Comment by michael podkanowicz — May 18, 2009 @ 2:31 pm
hi, I have a pottery musical tankard which plays Auld Lang Syne which you wind up from underneath the bottom, it also has the words to Auld Lang Syne are on the back of the tankard underneath two hands shaking together, on the front it shows a setting of inside an Inn with table and fire place, there’s an Inn Keeper and a Customer sitting down at a table, being served beers by a Serving Maid. The handle of the tankard is decorated with greenery purple/lilac scottish thistle. It is marked CROWN DEVON, FIELDINGS, MADE IN ENGLAND RoNo804873 with an black ink marking what looks like a FIG 3 but this is on an angle not straight. I’m not sure if its value or if it is worth anything. It is old and has been in the family well before the 1930 as it belonged to my grandmother. Can anyone advise?
Comment by Sue Johnson — May 19, 2009 @ 4:04 pm
Does anyone know about pottery made by JAMES KENT LTD ENGLAND? I have 2 x 2 tier leaves (brown/yellow/orange) designed cake stands stamped with OLD FOLEY JAMES KENT LTD ENGLAND. Any information would be of help.
Comment by Sue Johnson — May 19, 2009 @ 4:55 pm
I have a Poole Pottery bowl. Backstamp in pale bluecircled round dolphin. figure 88 underneath and a small blue curved cross. The outside of the bowl is ridged. with gold or browncoloured paint dripping down, in the middle a large flowerlike pattern in dark blues and orange infill with red surround. As I cannot find it on site can anyone tell me a bit more about it please.
Comment by yvonne phipp — May 22, 2009 @ 4:04 pm
i have just bought a small statue of which is a smaller version of mariken van nieumeghen, i dont know the history of this small statue or if it is even authentic, on the base there is a mark of 3 V’s in a triangle formation and also a name “vera van” i have tried to do a search but have found nothing.. cheers in advance
Comment by richard — May 30, 2009 @ 8:06 am
I have a porcelain peice marked Wade Britain – this is an imprint into the pottery on the bottom. It is also has ink markings reading Wade England ’19B. It is a black bowl filled with yellow, blue and crimson flowers and green leaves. Would this be an authentic peice of old Wade?? It was a peice of my grandmothers I think. Many Thanks. I look forward to hearing from you.
Comment by Annella Bolton — June 8, 2009 @ 12:14 pm
Hi
I have a pale green pottery squirrel hight approx 10″ made in England clearly marked on the base the makers stamp is torn and I cannot see it , but the condition is perfect. The number on the base is 1145.
I would be pleased to find out the value of the piece.
Regards
Ellen Linton
Comment by Ellen Linton — June 14, 2009 @ 1:04 am
Hi, Love this site. I’ve just aquired a tea set. The saucers are pale green with a gold rim and are stamped W H Grindley & Co Ltd on the underneath. The china cups have F R Gray & Sons Ltd, China Specialists, Aldridge, Staffs. The picture on each is of fox hunters and the cup has a gold rim.
I can’t find the potteries anywhere. Can you tell me their origin please, if possible.
Thanks, Chris
Comment by Miss C McLeod — June 15, 2009 @ 12:14 am
i have a dish with theroyal doulton lamberth mark
furness bermuda line witha mark 1235 and stamped in green regd no777531
can somebody help
Comment by stephen cockroft — June 20, 2009 @ 8:20 pm
I have a small dish made to look like a flower. Green with ring of orange stamens and brownish centre.
Marked “Sylvac 1955 =A Made in England”. Very good condition.
What is this likely to be worth?
Comment by Sonia Turner — June 24, 2009 @ 4:50 am
I have a black porcelain teapot painted with pink flowers and a small green painted mark on the bottom. Any ideas of maker and age would be appreciated.
Comment by Mararet Siswick — July 14, 2009 @ 7:16 pm
I have a small pottery dog with big ear’s.I have had him for at least 40 years. underneath it has markings BOURNE DENBY.ENGLAND also i think it has Sandy ware it could say something else instead of sandy can you help.
Comment by Avril Warham — July 15, 2009 @ 12:48 pm
I have a large piece of Poole pottery which I have indentified as being 1959-1967 but would be interested to know of pattern and possibly artist. mark looks like CS S on the bottom.
Comment by Joy — July 15, 2009 @ 7:33 pm
I have a Burleigh parrot jug. It appears to be unfinished and a crack which could have been caused in the firing. The jug is yellow with a blue parrot handle. The reference number is exact and clear – 4910? Any ideas? Many thanks, J. McI.
Comment by Julie McIntyre — July 15, 2009 @ 8:10 pm
about 25 years ago we purchased a teapot-jug-sugarbowl. all white in a fluted style. the base just has carlton ware in black. i think it,s a forgery as i can,t see the same marks of carlton ware on this site. any clues please.
Comment by alan smith — July 26, 2009 @ 3:00 am
i have been left a royal worcester piece of a little girl with a lamb.on the bottom it says 3416 april, can you give me any information on this item thank you . A BARKER
Comment by annette barker — July 26, 2009 @ 8:13 am
hello,
i have a devonware sf &co which is either abutter dish or cheese dish, it has two air holes in the lid, and the base is stamped leo p w,
inside the top it is stamped with a very old crown and a number which i cannot read.
it is cream in colour with gold trim and handle. it looks very old.
any clues please.
Comment by shirley giddings — August 17, 2009 @ 4:35 pm
I have a Minton Plate dated 1906, please could you tell me where I would research the patten.
Also on the underside is impressed WS, what should this tell me. Thank you
Comment by John Bray — September 2, 2009 @ 1:03 pm
Greetings from Maine…
I have a pair of figurines, a boy with a rabbit and a girl with a goose, both
seated. They are white porcelain with hats, scarf, apron, bodice and shoes.
There are also gold highlights; trim on bodice, goose’s beak, buttons and
carrot in boy’s hand.
They are both marked with a serifed, outlined, “A” under a stylized crown
(essentially an arc with five ‘lollipops’ rising above it. Both are about 7.5
inches tall. There is a 3/8″ blue border encircling their pedestals. They are in
perfect condition, save for 25+ years of cooking and smoking pollution, from
sitting in my open bookcase. A soft toothbrush and mild dish detergent
cleaned the girl very nicely.
These pieces were given to me by my mother, who told me they were from
Italy, but they were probably a thrift shop find (a favorite pastime of hers). I’ve
spent an entire Sunday online looking for the mark or similar figurals — with no
results. Can you help me identify these pieces, and give me some idea of their
value? Any information would be appreciated.
Thank you very much,
Rich Meyer
Corinna, Maine
Comment by Rich Meyer — September 6, 2009 @ 6:23 pm
I have 3 pitchers in a maroon background with strawberry pattern. They a quite beautiful. Do you know of this type. I am pretty sure they are from England
Comment by Barbara Whitman — September 10, 2009 @ 5:58 pm
i have a brown tankard (pottery) it has a horse head on the front on the underneath it is marked(2343)SYLVAC a back to front S and MADE IN ENGLAND.WOULD LIKE TO KNOW ITS VALUE PLEASE.
Comment by V SAMMONDS — September 16, 2009 @ 8:05 pm
I have a green dish approx 10″ x 6″ [shell shaped] that is print stamped on the back [OF ETRURIA, WEDGEWOOD & BARLASTON, MADE IN ENGLAND].
It is also idifentified with the indented marks
T
WEDGEWOOD
9L54p
GG 4
What age is it and is it of any value……thanks.
Comment by W Scarlett — September 23, 2009 @ 2:35 pm
i have a tea set or it could be a coffee set not sure its marked on the bottom as follows,
teapot has crown devon fieldings england a 145 b,there are 4 tiny cups and saucers marked same but
a165 and sugar bowl again devon fieldings england a163,they are a cream colour with yellow flowers green leaves and a bit of black around the top of teapot cups ect; can anyone explain the markings
on the bottom ie, a165, to me and how i could find a vaule for this set.
Comment by denise baker — September 24, 2009 @ 1:23 pm
Hi, I’m responding to Peter Button’s comment posted in September 2008.
I have the exact same shell-shaped vase given to me by my mother about 40-odd years ago. Although I will not sell it, I would also like to know more about it & the value, so if you have found out anything at all, I’d love to hear all about it…
Thanks,
Di
Comment by Diane Behr de Rosnay — October 3, 2009 @ 9:15 am
Hi again, I also have a white urn vase, 61/2 inches tall, with markings underneath – “Made in England” & what appears to be the word “URN”.I cannot make out what is stamped before the word “urn”, therefore I suppose it would be difficult to put a value on it. Any ideas who the maker could be & value?
Thanks,
Diane
Comment by Diane Behr de Rosnay — October 3, 2009 @ 9:52 am
hi i have a badly glazed earhenware pot that has markings on the bottom which are three lines.i have seen the markings somewhere before but can not find out any information about it.please could anyone enlighten me,thankyou.
Comment by trish long — October 3, 2009 @ 10:32 am
one bowl (pedestal) crown ford 9310 marking black with floral rim.19cm dia. 9 cm height
one crown ducal bowl AF A J 1142 markings. black outer glazing 25 cm dia. 6 cm height lotus flower design on inturned rim colours of blue, red and yellow. internal colour is blue. Would appreciate any comment on these two items.
Comment by anita adams — October 13, 2009 @ 9:39 am
I have 5 very old blue & white Willow Pattern dinner plates with “Japan” written in blue on the back of each. Would appreciate any info regarding these plates & possible value. Many thanks, Diane
Comment by Diane Behr de Rosnay — October 13, 2009 @ 6:42 pm
hi i have a nearly full dinner set in a pale green colour which has the poole england stamp (1959 to early 60s on it and i was wondering how much it would feach there are about maybe 5 pieces missing
Comment by Ishtar Scott — November 3, 2009 @ 7:53 am
I have a biscuit jar, Crown Devon, Stoke on Trent, England. The Number on it is 763, is this a pattern number? If so, where can I find patterns to match code. This jar is lidded with a finial and inside the lid is stamped E.P.N.S. The design is purple and ivory flowers. Any info appreciated. Thanks,
Comment by Marlene Hennessee — November 27, 2009 @ 7:28 pm
hi i have a bowel by michael cardew could you let me know if it is worth anything. john
Comment by john saint — December 4, 2009 @ 1:43 pm
Hi I have a very old set of dishes. I think it is year 1925
Crown Ducal ware England U.S.A. Pat. 72944 Reg. No. 732597
I have many pieces inthe set of 8 plus serving dishes and they are a numbered set.
no cracks or stainsd very good condition. Any idea what they could be worth?
I could send pictures
Comment by Penny — January 11, 2010 @ 9:26 pm
I have a large dish marked royal Doulton Flambe. It is not the usual flambe colouring .It is black and gold with purple flowers. Any ideas?
Comment by Shelagh — February 10, 2010 @ 12:03 pm
Further to the above the mark on the bottom indicates it is about before 1922
Comment by Shelagh — February 10, 2010 @ 12:05 pm
I have an old tea set with 12 cups/saucers, 12 small plates and 2 cake/sandwich larger plates, a sugar bowl and a milk jug. It is plain white and hand painted navy blue with gold gilt around the edges. It was left to me by my great Aunt and apparantely the tea set was her mothers. The pottery mark is a crown with a square set on one of its corner (rather like a kite) with the initial P B L Co anticlockwise. It has “England” written underneath. I have looked at the mark for Plant Bros in Staffordshire but the mark on my tea set is not set in a staffordshire knot and the crown is not winged. So I wonder whether you can give me any idea which pottery produced my tea set?
Comment by Faye Allen — February 22, 2010 @ 6:29 pm
I havea a Fadsfodrs Bone China Fenton made in England teacup with the number 8553/52 on it how do find out if this teacup is worth any money?
Comment by LaToya Horner — February 26, 2010 @ 8:15 pm
Does anyone have any information on Flesh Pots heads/ busts of ” Bing Crosby”. It is a large characature head model of the film star. I believe that it was a design by James Kent and made at his Foley factory in Stoke on Trent. This is as far as I have got. Any help will be gratefully received.
Comment by Francis Sweeney — February 28, 2010 @ 10:24 pm
i have a small pottery figure of a Hippo playing a french horn. Signed by S Bartley. Does anyone know of this name or make. I think its quite old but i cant find anything about it. Its painted glazed and fired. Any ideas ??
Comment by Russell Harrison — March 11, 2010 @ 6:29 pm
hi i have an arklow fine china tea service with sugar bowl and milk jug in a blu and pink flower on a white base do you know if this is of any value? thanks
Comment by nicola graves — March 25, 2010 @ 12:47 pm
I have a pitcher that is royal doulton and is the pickwick papers by charles dickens reg.number 817035 can you telll me anything about it? also has 8163 caston bottom and has a storyon the bottom
Comment by dennis hayes — March 30, 2010 @ 1:21 am
Hi my name is christina heit, I have a bowl from England with gold inlay flowers on the inside black back ground in good condition, on the bottom in gold i belive it is in gold as well with the name (H. Aynsley& CO England)do you know anything about it????
Comment by christina heit — March 31, 2010 @ 7:06 pm
Hi
I have a Sylvac Peter Rabbit, which is in very good condition but instead of a blue jacket it has a yellow one. The piece is stamped on the front “PETER RABBIT” and on the base it is marked SylvaC made in England but this is hand written beneath the glaze. Can anyone confirm that this is an actual Sylvac and if so why the yellow jacket.
Many thanks
Comment by Peter Marshall — April 7, 2010 @ 5:55 am
Hello, I have bought a Beswick Cow and Apple double dish on ebay it is in perfect condition and complete with the knife, it is stamped on the bottom BESWICK WARE MADE IN ENGLAND and the number 592 imbossed. could you tell me if there is any value in it please?
Annie
Comment by Anne Heslop — April 8, 2010 @ 3:49 pm
i have a f.r gray and sons 6 inch plate with 3 donkeys on the front signed by mike cooper also a 3 stemmed vase gold rims then a flowing green glaze into a brown base stamped germany 563/20 anyone give me a little insite please
Comment by tony meredith — April 19, 2010 @ 5:48 pm
hi there, i have a large white urn shaped vase, i have had it for 16years,it is stamped with a poole pottery mark undernesth but no other markings,i cannot find any information on it at all, does anyone have any ideas?
Comment by teresa — April 25, 2010 @ 5:35 pm
I have inherited a 12 setting dinner service in cream with gold patterns,with tureens and gravy boat,the markings are Crescent Ivory, with the initials JG & sons. I can find no record anywhere. Does this have any value, please?
Comment by Jess — April 29, 2010 @ 4:11 pm
I have bee left an article. Dont know what category but I would say it is a wall hanging of a Jester. Aprox 5.5 inches tall and 5inches wide. Mainly face colour of pink/beige with hat of green and orange. Mark on back says Beswick Ware made in england number 7197 in black. There are two holes for wire to hang.Very feint crazing shows on pink part of face otherwise good condition and very attractive. I remember it being at home for years! Also found a Beswick Goldcrest 2415. In perfect condition.
Comment by s. watson — May 2, 2010 @ 1:14 pm
I have inherited what I think is a meat platter. approx 15.5 x 12.5 inches. blue and white pattern. flowers at the 4 points with other design between the flowers and around the outer edge of the inside bottom of the platter. On the back- kneeling potter at work. kneeling on oblong box with 1790 printed in it. below this – K & Co B Late Mayer. Above the potter the word ” Marlborough”. from what I can work out on the net it may be around the 1850′s and Marlborough is the design name. I have not been able to track one down the same.
Comment by Gloria Harbridge — May 4, 2010 @ 3:11 am
I inherited a a pair of vase cant make out the markings looks like HJ England with Kings crest red letter A and 951 on both, one has a painting of 2 milk maids with sheep in the field, the other is two maids sat under a tree. Under ideas please.
Many Thanks Julie
Comment by julie griffiths — May 8, 2010 @ 9:21 pm
Hello there, I have been searching the web for another piece of pottery in the same design as a piece I inherited to see if it is worth very much or nothing at all. I have established that it is CROWN DEVON FIELDINGS, I think it is called a CHARGER PLATE, although I thought it was called a wall plate, it has 3 holes formed on the back for wiring or stringing. It measure 12″ diameter, and the decoration is very art deco, A castle appears from behind bushes with a blue cloud behind the castle and the foreground is lots of flowers and leaves, the base colour is cream/beige and the castle is ochre leaves & flowers in green, ochre, dark blue, light blue & mauve. Would be very grateful if anyone knows anything about this pattern/design. Thank you Mary JJ
Comment by MARY JJ — May 13, 2010 @ 12:34 pm
Sorry forgot to say the backstamp is in black with a crown at the top with CROWN DEVON, fieldings, made in england, then P ? Applied for. also in black is a marking M 441 & a swiggle, and pressed into the glaze is a numer but cannot make that out except the middle one of 3 is 0 , I also forgot to say it has a green band around the edge of the plate, thanks Mary jj
Comment by MARY JJ — May 13, 2010 @ 12:45 pm
Hi i have a plate with K@Co B Which was made at i think Dale Hall works it has above The Nude potter the name Cromer There is no England mark or Ltd but it has a 4 digit pattern code 1446 and a letter N plus a Number 18. The plate is oblong in shape with blue and red flowers with gold colour middles to them ,could you please help me to find out how old it is and the value if any .thanks Martin ps sorry forgot to add late mayers losol ware.
Comment by martin stubbs — May 17, 2010 @ 10:11 pm
hi i have a gold coloured oval shaped bowl with 2 handles. it has a stand attached to bottom and crenellated edge on top. it is marked on base with made in england a crown and crown devon with 3 gold dots in a triangular shape could you help identify please
Comment by lee — May 24, 2010 @ 9:58 pm
I have a blue willow pattern teas set with no makers marks, some pieces have different shaped gold dot markings. The china is translucent but not highly so and there is some definate rough textures or blips to touch. The set comes with a small jug but a very large sugar bowl… Thanks for your help
Comment by karan sheahan — June 14, 2010 @ 12:32 pm
i have a large black and white jug approx 10.5 inches tall, handle, flared base,glazed and decorated with small apples [possibly a cider jug?]
Marked : ‘Stella’ Oetzmann & Co Hampstead Rd London. From the registration it appears to be 15th Sept 1880.
Thanking you for any information/help with this item
Comment by june mcdowall — June 14, 2010 @ 4:09 pm
Hi There
I recently brought a item that i would say was a vase and wanted to know what it might be worth,
it is approx 7 inches high and it starts off with a very dark red colour and works it way up to the top to a brighter red. the top of the vase is about 3 1/2 inches wide, and it shape sort of balloons out in the middle.
underneath is the Ducal Ware stamp with the number 235 on it, overall looks in very good condition for what i think was made in the 1940′s
Hope you can help me
with regards
kelly windibank
Comment by Mrs Kelly Windibank — June 15, 2010 @ 5:43 am
Hi,
I have a royal lancastrian vase in a jade colour approx 12 inches tall with a rose emblem on the base with, Royal Lancastrian underneath with hand made in englang. It also has a mark that looks like a letter j offset with a number three behind it.
I am curious as to its age and identity can you please help
Best regards, barbara barnes
Comment by Mrs barbara Barnes — June 16, 2010 @ 4:04 pm
Hi
I have a jar (biscuit?) that I would appreciate any details on. It is Carlton Ware,(Stoke on Trent) Reg. No: 290283 Pattern No: 1668.
Regards
Clive
Comment by Clive Henning — June 28, 2010 @ 9:09 pm
Hi I have a carmel & white Crown Devon vase with a gold crest & the following ID on the base A1459/14 Gold M46 YT with a red H can you advise me of approx value Thanks .
Comment by Alex Barrownman — July 11, 2010 @ 8:45 am
Can anyone please help !!!!
I’m new to china/pottery collecting and am confused by the fact that lots of items don’t have any makers marks at all, some have only a line or ‘squiggle’ on the bottom. Is there a ‘rule of thumb’ to be guided by when buying unmarked items ?? Maybe someone can recommend an appropriate book or website for me to read.
Thanks in anticipation !!!!
Comment by J. Kavanagh — July 15, 2010 @ 4:32 pm
I have a pitcher and bowl with this mark on bottom. Ducal Crown Ware and also A.G.R. &Co Ltd, England . Is this an antique or reproduction?
Comment by S. Edwards — July 23, 2010 @ 1:00 am
I have a tea set marked TF&S Ltd. Imperial yellow. #661 made in England. It base colour is cream and ridged. the cups have triangle handles the inner rim is gold yellow and orange, same on bottom outer rim. The same colours on rims of other pieces. any information would be much appreciated.
Comment by mary godman — July 26, 2010 @ 2:40 pm
I have a small china tray about 8 inches x 3 with 3 race horses PICTURED,.
Trimmed with gold round edge.
I have had this tray since 1947.is it of any value.
Made by F.R GRAY & SONS ALDRIDGE STAFFORDSHIRE
Comment by V MILLER — July 29, 2010 @ 4:11 pm
Hi I have a very old set of dishes.
Crown Ducal ware England U.S.A. Pat. 72944 Reg. No. 732597
I have a set of 12 square plates & 12 saucers & 6 cups.
can you give me information as to the year it was made, the name of the pattern and possible worth? also, if possible where i might find more of these pieces?
thank you
M. McMinn
Comment by M. McMinn — August 1, 2010 @ 9:59 pm
I picked up small piece pottery has the square stamp with all the names purple flowers and pasley decor 31\2 ” ht. 41/2″ wide red clay bottom white paint approx value?
Comment by esteban hernandez — August 9, 2010 @ 12:34 am
I have a Beswick ware jug/pitcher. It has the Beswick ware mark on the base plus a marking 261-1, plus what looks like a small red number 4.
It is turquoise blue at the base up to a pale turquoise/sandy coloured top as if the colour has run from the bottom to the top. It has gold sort of splashes on it too. The handle is like a rounded 3 with an extra loop under the 3. Could you please give me some indication of what it may be worth. Thank you. L.Stone
Comment by L.Stone — August 9, 2010 @ 2:34 am
hi all, wondering if I can get any expert help? total amateur here
I have a very small beige handpainted bowl with handpainted blue exotic bird on either side signed M.H. with a little circle, both hand-excised on the bottom, shows age-crazing, would love to know who its by and so on? best wishes
Comment by L.Poole — August 13, 2010 @ 12:40 pm
I have another item, a turquoise highly glazed squarish vase with bamboo imprint design, on bottom is impressed Made In England, no.14. and a little simple fish symbol, any ideas what company this is by and era? thanks again
Comment by L.Poole — August 13, 2010 @ 12:42 pm
I have inherited two musical jugs, one I have already found but the other has the words to “Killarney” on the back with “the irish jaunting car” on the front. There appears to be no symbol anywhere. Can someone tell me how old and a value. In very good condition, no chips or cracks.
Comment by P Hillis — August 17, 2010 @ 11:27 am
Hi I found a pig cup with 2 circles on the bottom with lines at the bottom he is cream coloured and i am interested to know where he is from he is in good shape, would he be old? He does look older thanks
Comment by m.olson — August 21, 2010 @ 9:22 pm
I HAVE A LOVELY CORONATION CUP 1953 IT HAS RAISED FACE OF QUEEN ELIZABETH 11 IT HAS A515 CROWN DEVON FIELDINS MADE IN ENGALND ON THE BOTTOM IS IT OF ANY VALUE
Comment by GLENYS — September 3, 2010 @ 10:27 pm
i have piece of maling pottery springtime pattern but its hoctaganal bowl about 13 cm in diameter but i cannot find nothing about it on net any where can any 1 help me please the serial number is 6536 or 6526 i cannot quite make it out
Comment by joanna rose — September 8, 2010 @ 6:49 pm
HAVE LEARNED SO MUCH FROM YOU. I HAVE SEEN DENBY STONEWARE with a SCROLL MARK WITH DENBY STONE WARE IN CENTER OF SCROLL. I checked MARK AND IT IS CIRCA 1950 TO 1970 CIRCA 1950. Under the scroll there is an N on left and 5 on right. What does N and 5 mean ? Thank you
Comment by R RUDDY — September 29, 2010 @ 9:39 pm
I have inherited several plates & platters from the makers K & Co.B on the kneeling man stamp is also the word “Kendal” which i presume to be the design name? Impressed in the plates are the words ivory K&Co and then 2 seperate digits all different from eachother. I have searched for information on the age and value but to no avail. Any ideas? Thank you
Comment by J Boycott — October 1, 2010 @ 3:58 pm
Hi, i have several pieces of burmantofts pottery,i am trying to age and value,but have had no luck so far,the pieces are, a lime green dimpled vase about 11cm high with the stamp BF 642 on the bottom, also 2 vases about 14cm high with the stamp BF 633on the bottom,these are blueish in colour, Any ideas? Thank You
Comment by Barry Nichol — October 3, 2010 @ 2:43 pm
Hi, i have a maling jug on the bottem it as Maling then photo of Castle and beneath Castle Englandand a letter B, all other stamps i seen have England Newcastle upon tyne
Any ideas Thanks
Comment by peter beard — October 10, 2010 @ 6:58 pm
I have a Jug, marked “CROWN DEVON FIELDINGS” Made in England. It is approx.150mm in diameter and 220mm high. Has a Kangaroo for the handle, the words of ädvance Australia Fair”and pictures depicting Captain Cook taking possession of Botany Bay. The second scene is that of Aborigines throwing spears at Capt. Cook. Also has a music box in the base which plays Ädvance Australia Fair”when the Jug is picked up. Can anyone tell the age of this Jug for me, and possible value. It is in very good condition. Thank you
Comment by Graham Wilson — October 15, 2010 @ 2:52 am
Hi
I have a small green jug and saucer leaf pattern. on the base is 4683 Sylvac England very good condition it also has a Sylvac label on it. Could you give me a value please. Thanks Pamela
Comment by Pamela Murray — October 21, 2010 @ 5:08 pm
I have a very large oval platter and I am trying to identify the pattern. Can anyone help? It has blue & white scrolls, simular to the Duchess design, and a zig-zag pattern with red and blue dots in between. Any help will be greatly appreciated.
Comment by Heather Swallow — October 25, 2010 @ 11:26 am
Could someone tell me how much a James Kent Old Foley Chinese Rose teapot with a small chip would be worth?
Thank you.
Comment by Sarah — October 28, 2010 @ 5:53 pm
I have a sugar & creamer with a race scene on them and gold upper & lower rims. It says Bourne Denby Derby in a circle with Made in England surounding the circle on the bottom of the sugar container. Can I find out what these are worth? I can’t find them anywhere.
Comment by Sandy Morgan — November 26, 2010 @ 9:29 pm
i have part of a tea set marked tg green &co ltd no 0618 could anyone tell me how old this is thanks nance
Comment by nance — December 4, 2010 @ 12:48 pm
Hi,
I have a Mettlach stein with a lid and small chip on the rim. It also has 1799 – 2608 IV – VB and a castle marked on the bottom. Can anyone tell me the current value or where I can obtain it’s current value?
Comment by Connie — December 31, 2010 @ 1:23 am
Hi,
I’ve just been sorting through my Late Mother’s possessions and have come across a Glossy Black and Gold Wade Coffee Set (Black on the Outside and Gold inside), but I can’t find anything like it on any of the web sites I’ve been told to look at.
Most of the items are just marked “Wade”, though 2 of the Cups have the name Royal Victoria.
Does you recognise the pattern and know what it’s called?
Regards
Keith
Comment by Keith Winnett — January 2, 2011 @ 8:28 pm
I have a number of pieces of Maling china. Pattern is marked as maltese reg no589510 i’m unable to find when it was made or if its of any value as a collecters items
thanks
Jimmy
Comment by Mr J Barron — January 10, 2011 @ 1:23 pm
I have a Carltonware dish – highly decorated – marks I 01 0/1311 3788. Would be interested in knowing anything about it and if it has any value. Also a blue and cream jug – marks Cauldon 31 I and a Staffordshire dog – only mark is a “V”. Any comments would be appreciated.
Comment by Maureen Greer — January 24, 2011 @ 5:42 am
I have a large dish by wade it’s got an n marke and pattern is gothic can u tell me if it’s worth anything
Comment by Pam poole — January 29, 2011 @ 4:56 pm
I have a Royal Doulton figerine I belive to be named “The Touler”, It has been in the family for many years, he is a
stone colour with a blue check jacket, he is carrying a sack over his shoulder and is glazed. It has the Royal Doulton and 10 stamp impressed on the base. I would like to know the valuation for insurance.
Comment by Joy Smith — February 1, 2011 @ 2:10 am
I have a small cream jug, price kensington it has a serial number. Can you tell me if it´s worth anything.
Comment by C. Brock — February 4, 2011 @ 7:06 pm
Can anyone tell me about Losot Ware, Claremont. I have quite a few of pieces (inherited) of Grandma’s dinner service and the backstamp is the blue colour, with a crown logo and the words Keelings Co Ltd, Burslem, England. Thankyou.
Comment by May Brace — February 5, 2011 @ 1:41 pm
I have a cream plate that was my mothers it has lily of the valley around the edge.
Underneath the mark is wedgwood embossed queens ware in green underneath that made in england plate is indented WEDGWOOD made in ENGLAND AND A NUMBER THAT LOOKS LIKE 7726.Is it an old one of the creamwear and is it worth anything.It has 2 chips on the rim.
Comment by B Harrison — February 8, 2011 @ 11:10 pm
I have a rather pretty hand painted, vividly colourful, ceramic bowl approx 9 inches in diameter and 6 inches deep. The mark on the bottom is that of a swan sat above a swag in which it is written ‘Trade Mark’ and under that ‘LORNE’, further and underneath this are the initials B & H and then a number in red looks like 2 or 3 followed by an upside down v or badly drawn 0 with 7 and 3 following it.
Can you give any further information regarding the date, maker and value of this piece please. Many thanks, Guy
Comment by Guy — February 28, 2011 @ 3:21 pm
I have found a small rabbit among the pendelfin,s we collected for our granddaughter. It is a little smaller and is marked Dinkle ware England.Floss. I cannot find any information on this company.Can you help me please.Thanks Dave.
Comment by dave blackburn — March 13, 2011 @ 4:09 pm
1934 liberty of freedom tea pot for sale mint condition are you interested ,mr freedy cadden
Comment by fred cadden — March 21, 2011 @ 3:27 pm
1934 libert teapot fore sale
Comment by fred cadden — March 21, 2011 @ 3:29 pm
Hello, I have what I think is a biscuit barrel with flowers of some kind on. It also has legs. It is marked with a crown and underneath that are the letters w & r, a bird below and stoke on trent underneath. It also has Carlton Ware stamped on it. This hgas a number, which I think is either a 1 or 2 then 84 and again I think a 1 with a letter R at the side. I think it is dated late 1896 – 1927. How can I find a value to this please. This also as a small crack in it.
Colleen Flint
Comment by Colleen Flint — April 16, 2011 @ 4:48 pm
Hi there I have a mug from The Coronation of Queen Elizabeth 2nd June 2nd 1953 . I’ve looked everywhere and can’t find a picture of another like it.It was made by Radfords in England and is numbered. I was wondering if anyone else has seen one like it. I’ve seen a cup with the exact printing on it but I have a mug.. any input would be great
Thanks
Comment by Beverly — April 30, 2011 @ 1:31 am
Hi
I have a pretty floral jug, on the base is a crown with Made in England underneath it, does any one know who the maker maybe, thanks.
Comment by Sue warburton — June 17, 2011 @ 2:52 pm
Can someone out there help. I have a green pot with handle that reminds me of a bed pan by S.F.&co England. It had the crown stamp on the bottom and has the number +511 111 written on the bottom. One, what does this mean? I have searched the internet and believe it’s pre 1912 but what does the number mean and is there a value to such a pot? Any help gratefully received.
Comment by Jayne Russell — June 26, 2011 @ 10:32 am
I have inherited a Crown Derby Fieldings dish from my mother and have no idea of the value ( if there is one!)Would be grateful for any suggestions/ advice. It is green and cream with flowers and two handles and sits on a base. It is numbered 3304.Have looked on the internet but cannot find anything similar. Any ideas most welcome!
Thanks
Comment by Caroline — July 25, 2011 @ 2:01 pm
Hi,
My daughters are having a tea party and I stopped at the local Goodwill and found a beautiful teapot made by Price Kensington – Made in England. It has what I assume is a stamped serial number: 4219. It’s a floral rose center with gold colored roping around it (which goes in a circle around the center floral area, but comes out like the sun shape on the outer area, if that makes sense) It has shiny gold around the edges with some leaf like marks on the spout. It’s truly beautiful and could not find any information about this specific pot online, and would like to know if it’s of any value before I let twin 4 year olds use it as their centerpiece at their birthday party. I can send a picture if desired. Any help would be most appreciated. Thanks!
Comment by Melissa Ely — August 5, 2011 @ 1:40 am
I i have a plate that looks fairly old it has a stamp on the back with the words welbeck above a crown then below the crown theres a ribbon with a word in it but some of the letters have fading so i cant quiet make it out it begins with of A_ _T _ _ _ A then under that it says S.M.& Sons ENGLAND Rd No 371791. Im just wondering if you have any information for on that 4 me has i cant to get any exact info. The plate its self has a blue & red floral pattern round the rim & theres also two small numbers stamped on the back & they are a 2/7. Hope 2 hear back from you. Thanks
Comment by stacey — September 20, 2011 @ 2:16 pm
i have three black jugs going up in size decorated with flowers plus a matching vase. i says made in england and various marks on the bottom. I think its staffordshire but has anyone any ideas. I would be very grateful for any suggestions to follow up.
Kind regards
Margaret Barnett
Comment by margaret barnett — September 26, 2011 @ 10:45 pm
Hi, I’ve inherited a Biscuit Barrel, James Kent Ltd, Fenton. # 165 It appears to be about 1920′s. Do you think it might be worth anything.
Comment by Karen — October 17, 2011 @ 8:02 am