Quality Junk

March Sales: Sakura, Caribe Sterling, Sone, Johann Haviland, Decora Ceramics, Shenango, Harmony House, Royal Copenhagen

2010-04-24T17:55:00.001-07:00

FEBRUARY SALES

Here's a list of the sales that I had in March.

Sakura Galaxy Blue Serving Bowl

Description -- White body, gold trim. Gold stars on blue rim, white center well. 10 5/8" diameter x 4" foot ring x 2 1/2" high. This is a discontinued pattern, issue dates unknown. Excellent used condition with no damage except light wear. Current (05/09) replacement value is $33.99 ea.

Historical Data -- Sakura was a private company established in New York City in the 1960's for the marketing of quality designed consumer dinnerware. They were purchased in 2000 by Oneida and are now the ceramic tableware division of that company. Many well known designers provide patterns for them.

Caribe Sterling USMC Dinner Plate

Sone Mt Fuji Sugar Bowl

Johann Haviland Blue Garland Covered Butter Dish

Decora Ceramics Wall Dish

Shenango Harvard University Dinner Plate

Harmony House Westwind Sugar Bowl

Royal Copenhagen Fajence Mini Plate (Tivoli Gate)

Beer Mug "Archie Bunker for President"

More pictures and details to follow as time allows. Thanks for your patience.

February Sales: Spode, Noritake, Fitz & Floyd

2010-04-20T15:22:00.001-07:00

FEBRUARY SALES
Here's a list of the few sales that I had in February,

Spode Geisha Light Blue Dinner Plate

Description -- Blanc de Chine Line, Pattern #Y3456. 10 5/8" diameter. All white body with an embossed Turquoise floral rim. Excellent used condition with no chips, cracks or crazing. Spode bottom mark with additional decorators marks. Current (06/09) replacement value $41.99 each.

Historical Data -- Spode was founded in 1770. Copeland acquired the Spode business in 1833. In 1976 the company merged with Royal Worchester. They continue to make fine pottery today.

Noritake Colony Teapot

Description -- Pattern 5932. All white body, platinum trim & highlights. 4 1/2" high, 10 1/4" handle to spout, 4 1/4" opening, 3 1/8"" foot ring. Issue dates unknown. Excellent used condition with light wear. Current 09/09 replacement value $79.95.

Historical Data -- The Noritake Company was established in the village of Noritake near Nagoya Japan by Baron Morimura in January 1904. Today it is one of the premier makers of fine China in the world.

Fitz & Floyd Vegetable Harvest Luncheon Plate

Description -- Fitz & Floyd - Vegetable Harvest (Asparagus) Luncheon Plate. 9 1/8" diameter. Purple Asparagus stalk on white background. Excellent condition with no damage. Issued in 1982 discontinued around 1987.

Historical Data -- Fitz & Floyd was founded in 1960 as an import company. They continue today to have a reputation for high quality gift, dinnerware and collectibles. Add this piece to your table as a centerpiece.

Noritake Altadena Dinner Plate

Description -- Pattern #6437 10 5/8" diameter, Gray roses on the side. Excellent used condition with no damage. First issued in 1963 and discontinued in 1976. Current (05/09) replacement value $21.99 each.

Historical Data -- The Noritake Company was established in the village of Noritake near Nagoya Japan by Baron Morimura in January 1904. Today it is one of the premier makers of fine China in the world.

Thanks for listening .... ☺☺☺☺

Atomic Mall Sidewalk Sale

2010-04-20T10:12:00.000-07:00

Sorry to have been away so long, but taxes are over with and it is time to get back to work.

Wow! I finally finished discounting all 2400++ listings in my Atomic Mall Store ( http://www.atomicmall.com/qualityjunk ) in preparation for our big sidewalk sale this coming weekend. Just a hint for you bargain hunters out there - almost everything has been reduced by 50% for the duration of the sale.

I hope that all of you will take advantage of this sale. I will leave my discounts on until 28 Apr 2010 at which time everthing will be returned to the original price and selective discounts will be given on individual listings or groups of listings. Of course after the sale all offers will be considered.

More later. Thanks for listening.

Missing a Month.

2010-03-22T17:32:00.000-07:00

I have been so busy with other issues that I have neglected this blog for over a month and I want to let everyone know that I am still alive and kicking. I still have a few business and personal issues to deal with, but I promise to be back up and running here in April. Thanks for understanding. Bill aka Quality Junk

Pottery Sales: Franciscan, Fukagawa, Lenox, Mikasa, Syracuse

2010-02-05T05:55:00.000-08:00

I am finally getting around to playing a little catch up. Here is a list of sales in 2010 so far.
RECENT SALES

Franciscan Hacienda Gold Salad & Bread Plates

Description -- California Pottery, Hacienda Line. White body with yellow and tan geometric bands and flowers. First issued in 1965 and discontinued in 1983. Excellent used condition, no chips, cracks or crazing. In the 1960's, the "hand made" look was back in favor with consumers and the ringed grooves of the Hacienda line were a successful entry into the dinnerware market by Franciscan. US Backstamp.

Historical Data -- Gladding, McBean and Company started in 1875. The company grew and acquired other potteries. They made sewer pipes, floor tiles, dinnerwares, and art pottery with a variety of trademarks. In 1934, dinnerware and art pottery were sold under the name Franciscan Ware. The company became Interpace Corporation and in 1979 was purchased by Josiah Wedgwood & Sons. The plant was closed in 1984 and all production was moved to England.

Syracuse Sauce Bowls

Description -- Restaurantware. 3" diameter x 1 1/2" foot ring, white body, blue & red band with crosses and scrolls. Blue wreath with HPH monogram in center, yellow roses. Excellent used condition with no chips, cracks or crazing. While we are offering these individually there will be a considerable shipping discont for multiple purchases. I have not been able to decypher the HPH monogram although I assume it to be a restaurant or hotel.

Historical Data -- Syracuse China, located in Lyncourt, New York (a suburb of Syracuse), was founded in 1871 as Onondaga Pottery Company (O.P. Co.) in the town of Geddes next to Syracuse and is still producing to this day. Initially a producer of earthenware, in the late 19th century, O.P.Co., under President James Pass, developed a new china body and won the medal for translucent china at the World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago in 1893. In 1897 production turned to the vitreous china body. Its first colored china body, "Old Ivory," appeared in 1926. The company thrived with its hotel and railroad sales. The narrow-bodied "Econo-Rim" was tailored for the cramped table space of dining cars. Highly sought after collectible patterns sell regularly on eBay and at estate sales. The company was renowned for its fine china designs until 1970 when it limited its production to mostly restaurant dinnerware. They purchased the Mayer China Co and the Shenango China Co in 1984. In 1995, Libbey Inc. of Toledo, Ohio purchased the Syracuse China Company to complement its strong presence in the food service industry. My best information is that Libbey is closing the plant in 2009 and will manufacture off shore with the Syracuse trademark.

Mikasa Kabuki Dinner Plates

Description -- Mikasa Fine China Line Kabuki Dinner Plates. L9011 Japan. 10 1/2" diameter, White body with green band and multicolored floral design. First issued in 1978 and was discontinued in 1985. Excellent used condition with no chips, cracks or crazing. Current (05/09) replacement value $19.99.

Historical Data -- In the 1930's, Mikasa was established as an international trading company based in Secaucus, New Jersey. Named in honor of Prince Mikasa, the youngest brother of Emperor Hirohito, Mikasa soon became one of the most recognized Japanese brand names in the West. The company itself never attempted to "manufacture" any of its dinnerware. Rather, the Mikasa branded items were imported from Japan, Ireland, England, France, and Germany. By the 1950's customer requests were pouring in from all parts of the country, and department stores could not shelve enough stock to meet demand. By the early 1960's, Mikasa had established a reputation as "the pioneer of American casual." The 1970's brought new retail store locations. Showrooms and warehouses appeared in Canada, Europe, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand. In an effort to stay as competitive as possible during the 1980's, Mikasa added crystal stemware, stainless steel flatware and other household accessories to its product offerings. Today, Mikasa continues to leverage the momentum it has built over the decades since its start.

Lenox Poppies on Blue Salt & Pepper Shakers

Description -- Chinastone Line. 3" tall x 2 3/8" wide, deep blue accents, red flowers. Excellent used condition with no damage. First issued in 1984 and discontinued in 2007. Current (01/10) replacement value $89.95.

Historical Data -- Lenox is the name of a porcelain maker. Walter Scott Lenox and Jonathan Coxon, Sr., founded the Ceramic Art Company in Trenton, New Jersey, in 1889. In 1906, Lenox left and started his own company called Lenox. The company makes a porcelain that is similar to Irish Belleek. Their superior dinnerware has made the company famous. Lenox was bought by Department 56 in 2005.

Fukagawa Arita Gold Bamboo Bud Vases

Description -- Arita, Pattern 901. 5 1/4" tall. Handpainted Gold & Gray bamboo trees on white body with gold trim. Excellent used condition with no chips, cracks or crazing. Estimated (10/09) replacement value $12.99 each.

Historical Data -- In 1894 the modern Fukagawa company was founded in Arita by Chuji Fukagawa, with the Fukagawa mark of Mount Fuji and a stream, as its trade mark. The Fukagawa company has served as purveyor for the Japanese Imperial Household since 1910 and only produces white true high temperature porcelain.

Franciscan Madeira Covered Sugar Bowl

Description -- Franciscan Madeira Sugar Bowl w/Lid California Pottery. No damage, excellent used condition. First issued in 1967 and discontinued in 1983. Current replacement value on this sugar bowl is $24.99.

Historical Data: -- Franciscan Ware, or Franciscan Pottery as it was first named in 1934, was manufactured by Gladding-McBean and Company of Glendale, CA. The Franciscan line continued in California until 1984 when the facility at Glendale was closed and all production moved to England. Franciscan is now a part of the Wedgewood Group.

Franciscan Pomegranate Shaker & Dinner Plates

Description -- California Pottery, Eclipse Line. Same elliptical shape as the very popular Starburst pattern. Speckled tan background with sprays of gray and rust colored pomegranates. First issued in 1954 and discontinued in 1958. Excellent used condition with no damage.

Historical Data -- Gladding, McBean and Company started in 1875. The company grew and acquired other potteries. They made sewer pipes, floor tiles, dinnerwares, and art pottery with a variety of trademarks. In 1934, dinnerware and art pottery were sold under the name Franciscan Ware. The company became Interpace Corporation and in 1979 was purchased by Josiah Wedgwood & Sons. The plant was closed in 1984 and all production was moved to England.

Eclipse Shape -- Eclipse shapes were designed by Franciscan staff designer George James and are representative of typical mid 20th century household dinnerware.

Franciscan Duet Dinner Plates

Description -- California Pottery. Eclipse Line. 10 7/8" diameter, 2 pink flowers & gray stems. Excellent used condition with no chips, cracks or crazing. Current replacement value on these plates is $13.99 each. Duet was first issued in 1956 and was discontinued in 1961..

Duet -- Duet came in 1956 and evokes images of large tail finned cars and the romance of teenage beach movies. Two romanticized red roses lie entwined to one side of the pieces, exaggerating the already irregular shape. With pink and black colors, it is the embodimentof a 1950's kitchen. This is period dinnerware on a family shape that showcases some of the finest of mid-century design. ("Franciscan - An American Dinnerware Tradition" by Bob Page and Dale Frederiksen)

Historical Data -- Gladding, McBean and Company started in 1875. The company grew and acquired other potteries. They made sewer pipes, floor tiles, dinnerwares, and art pottery with a variety of trademarks. In 1934, dinnerware and art pottery were sold under the name Franciscan Ware. The company became Interpace Corporation and in 1979 was purchased by Josiah Wedgwood & Sons. The plant was closed in 1984 and all production was moved to England.

Details to follow later.

Thanks for listening .... ☺☺☺☺

Updates to My Atomic Mall Store Pottery Categories

2010-01-21T19:36:00.000-08:00

My apologies again for not updating recently. A combination of the Holidays and changes to my store on Atomic Mall (Quality Junk) have just taken over my available time for a while.

While all of my holiday sale prices have expired I am in the processes of putting almost all of my listings back on sale at 50% off until May. At the same time I have been putting all of my listings into categories in the store to make it easier to find what you want. In all Atomic Mall Stores there are two category lists. One is provided by the mall and is available for all sellers to use and the second is developed by each store owner. Usually the store categories are more or less specifically tailored to the stores merchandise and the mall list is more general in nature.

Most of my merchandise is pottery so most of my store categories are designed to sort my listings by the state or country where the Pottery was made. This is all a work in progress and I intend to revise it as needed.

As a general rule if you are on my Quality Junk home page and are looking for Pottery in general (ie, art pottery, dinnerware, restaurantware) use the bottom list for mall categories. If you are searching for pottery made in a specific geographical location(ie, Ohio, California, England, Japan) use the store categories in the upper list. If you are searching for a specific pottery (ie, Franciscan, Wedgwood, Noritake) use the Store search window at the top of the page. The Mall and Store categories ar actually links so all you have to do is click on them. to use the search window you have to type or paste your search term in.

More details later. Thanks for listening

Pottery Sales: Beatrice Albert, Harmony House, Seyei

2010-01-04T12:34:00.000-08:00

I made a few last minute sales at the end of the year and I am just getting around to posting them here.

RECENT SALES

Beatrice Albert Beverage Server

Description -- USA. Terra Cotta Body with glossy speckled green glaze. 12 1/4" high - 4" foot diameter - 8" handle to widest point - 2" x 3" sloped pouring spout. Unglazed terra cotta base. There is an indentation on each side where the terra cotta meets the green glaze. I assume these were to provide an additional hand hold when pouring as this is a fairly heavy piece. There are no marks, but I have seen a few of these online and they were designed by Beatrice Albert and distributed by the Alfred E. Knobler Co. Excellent used condition. Great addition to any mid century pottery collection.

Historical Data -- The Albert Pottery operated in Chamblee, Georgia from 1946-1955. It was founded and run by Joseph Albert (1920-1972) and Beatrice (Bebe) Shamos Albert (1920-2004). The Albert Pottery employed 18 people and made 1,000 pieces of dinnerware a day. It was sold throughout the country. Alfred Knobler of New York and later Carbone of Boston were distributors. Joseph Albert was in charge of engineering and production, and Beatrice Albert was the designer.

Harmony House Moderne Dinner Plates

Description -- Made in Japan. Pattern 3545. All white with platinum trim. Coupe Shape. No decal. Overall dimensions 10 3/8" diameter. Excellent used condition with no chips, cracks, crazing. Discontinued. Current (06/09) replacement value $15.99.

Historical Data -- In 1940, Sears introduced the Harmony House brand as an interior-decorating scheme that used four basic colors that could be coordinated with each other. (The year before, Sears catalogs featured "Charm House," a similar program.) Customers were encouraged to use a color wheel that was supplied in the catalog for coordinating colors. Eventually the color palette was expanded to 18 colors. The Harmony House style and color system was not merely limited to carpets and paints, either; the entire house could be furnished according to the colors. The Harmony House line of dinnerware was made for Sears & Roebuck by a number of companies including Hall China, Homer Laughlin, Salem China, Universal and Fine China of Japan among others. The Harmony House Line was discontinued in 1968.

More Harmony House at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

All Harmony House Postings in this Blog

Seyei Bella Maria Round Covered Casserole

Description -- 9 1/8 overall diameter x 10 3/4" handle to handle x 4 1/2" foot ring x 6 1/2" high (top of finial). Pink roses with silver leaves on white body with gray rim,, white interior, pattern #3129. Excellent used condition with no damage. Current (09/09) estimated replacement value $79.95. The issue date is unknown but Bella Maria was discontinued in 1959.

Historical Data -- Seyei is somewhat of a mystery to me. I believe it was established prior to WWII as the Seyei Toki Co. Limited in Nagoya, Japan. After the war they exported goods to the U.S. until 1970. It is thought that some patterns, including Bella Maria were only sold in Armed Forces exchanges in the Far East and possibly Europe and were never actually exported to the U.S. They were a major contractor for the Sears Harmony House Line.

More Seyei at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

All Seyei Postings in this Blog

Thanks for listening .... ☺☺☺☺

Poetry 101 - What is the Light?

2009-12-26T19:19:00.000-08:00

This poem was more of a fleeting thought that I had on the trolley coming home from a hard day at work. Looking at it again after 10 years, I can't even remember all the underlying events that caused me to put these thoughts to paper. I'll let the reader decide if it makes any sense in their lives.

What Is The Light?

The mind of the light is encased in a shield
so hardened and tough no secrets does it yield.

Looking in, no one knows what her thoughts really mean.
blurry shadows, drifting smoke, no reality seen.

Why this hiding of feelings that run deep and true
what harm to revealing the desires that accrue.

does the mind of the light search far and wide
or does it look for the answers down deep inside.

but this mystery of light is all good and right
the secrets of light should be hidden out of sight.

The strength of the light is in the knowing it's there
not in the laying on the table of all there is to bare.

When doubts arise and show their ugly faces
remember that the light is here and not in other places.

The Old Guy
12 Mar 2001

Pottery Sales: Frankoma, Mikasa, California Pottery, Royal (USA), Haeger, Metlox, Franciscan

2009-12-18T15:29:00.000-08:00

Hopefully this will be the last major update that I am forced to do in pieces. The Holiday Sales period is drawing to an end and Google shopping seems to have stopped making changes that are very time consuming and don't seem to have much impact on us "little shops" in terms of sales.

RECENT SALES

Frankoma "Teenagers of the Bible" Wall Plate

Description -- Jesus the Carpenter". 7 1/8" diameter, 1st in a series of ten plates. Clay body with raised design of Jesus with chisel. Signed on reverse. Issued for the benefit of Youth for Christ International in 1972. Excellent used condition with no chips, cracks or crazing.

Historical Data -- Frankoma Pottery was originally known as The Frank Potteries when John F. Frank opened shop in 1933 in Norman, Oklahoma. In 1938 they moved to Sapulpa. Early wares were made from a light cream-colored clay from Ada, Oklahoma, but in 1956 the company switched to a red burning clay from Sapulpa. John Frank died in 1973 and his daughter, Joniece, inherited the business. Frankoma went bankrupt in 1990. It was bought by Richard Bernstein in 1991 and is still operating.

More Frankoma at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

All Frankoma Postings in this Blog

Mikasa Amherst Dinner Plates

Description --Pattern 5874, 10 3/8" diameter. Black circles, gold band, scrolls on red rim. Excellent used condition with no damage. Issue dates unknown. Current (05/09) replacement value $35.99 each.

Historical Data -- In the 1930's, Mikasa was established as an international trading company based in Secaucus, New Jersey. Named in honor of Prince Mikasa, the youngest brother of Emperor Hirohito, Mikasa soon became one of the most recognized Japanese brand names in the West. The company itself never attempted to "manufacture" any of its dinnerware. Rather, the Mikasa branded items were imported from Japan, Ireland, England, France, and Germany. By the 1950's customer requests were pouring in from all parts of the country, and department stores could not shelve enough stock to meet demand. By the early 1960's, Mikasa had established a reputation as "the pioneer of American casual." The 1970's brought new retail store locations. Showrooms and warehouses appeared in Canada, Europe, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand. In an effort to stay as competitive as possible during the 1980's, Mikasa added crystal stemware, stainless steel flatware and other household accessories to its product offerings. Today, Mikasa continues to leverage the momentum it has built over the decades since its start.

More Mikasa Amherst at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

All Mikasa Postings in this Blog

California Pottery Soup Tureen Set

Description -- Complete with lid, ladle and underplate. All White body, swirl design, with raised grape and leaves design. Overall dimensions 13" x 10 1/2" x 9" tall. Very Good used condition with medium age crazing and a 1/4" rub on the edge of the underplate. "CALIF USA" "783" incised under glaze on bottom. Beautiful piece of California Pottery. I believe this to be circa 1950's.

Historical Data -- The pottery industry in California dates back to the days of the conquistadors. The term California Pottery is primarily used when referring to the many Southern California Potteries that were in operation from the late 1800's to present day. It is a collecting venue that is definitely on the rise and presents the prospect of worthwhile investment with an excellent potential for increased value.

More California Pottery at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Royal Old Curiosity Shop Serving Bowl

Description -- Royal China (USA) - Old Curiosity Shop serving bowl. These are the hard to find 10" serving bowl. The more common 9 1/8" bowl has a lower replacement value, but this size has a replacement value (05/09) of $49.99. This bowl is unmarked but I have no doubt that it is Royal Old Curiosity Shop. Center design is a chest and jug. Excellent condition with no chips, cracks or crazing.

Historical Data -- Royal China operated in Ohio from 1934 to 1986. It was purchased by the Jeanette Glass Corp in 1969 but continued to operate under the Royal name. Operations ceased in 1986.

More Old Curiosity Shop at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

All Royal USA Postings in this Blog

Haeger Black Panther Figurine

Description -- Shiny black glossy glaze except for the paw bottoms. 23 1/2" x 5 1/4" x 4". Excellent used condition except for bottom wear. Intact but worn paper labels. While the copywrite tag dates this item to 1996, I remember these from my high school days (long, long ago). I'm not sure about value, but I do see them on line occasionally for $50-$90.

Historical Data -- Haeger Potteries of Dundee, Illinois. Founded in 1871 as the Dundee Brickyard (made much of the brick used to rebuild Chicago after the Great Fire) and is still producing fine pottery today.

More Haeger at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

All Haeger Postings in this Blog

Metlox Red Rooster Salad Plates
Description -- California Pottery, Poppytrail Division, Provincial Shape One. 7 1/2" diameter, brown rim, rooster center. Excellent used condition, no damage. First issued in 1955 and discontinued in 1979. Current (06/09) replacement value $9.99 each.

Vintage Advertising -- 1968 Metlox Brochure - "Early American with the exciting red coloring that lends style and life to Provincial Ware. The smokey effect on the edges and handles suggest age andenhance the antique feeling."

Historical Data -- The beginning of Metlox Manufacturing Company dates back to 1927 in Manhattan Beach, Ca when Willis and T. C. Prouty became interested in producing the ceramic portion of neon signs.Metlox Manufacturing Company was incorporated in the state of California in 1933. Metlox Manufacturing Company's incorporation was terminated on January 4, 1988.

More Metlox at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

All Metlox Postings in this Blog

Franciscan Hacienda Gold Soup Bowls & Dinner Plates

Description -- California Pottery, Hacienda Line. 10 3/4" diameter dinner plates, 6 3/8" diameter cereal bowls. Gold and tan geometric band. First issued in 1965 and discontinued in 1983. Excellent used condition, no chips, cracks or crazing. In the 1960's, the "hand made" look was back in favor with consumers and the ringed grooves of the Hacienda line were a successful entry into the dinnerware market by Franciscan. US Backstamp. Current replacement value $13.99. These are heavy earthenware plates.

Historical Data -- Gladding, McBean and Company started in 1875. The company grew and acquired other potteries. They made sewer pipes, floor tiles, dinnerwares, and art pottery with a variety of trademarks. In 1934, dinnerware and art pottery were sold under the name Franciscan Ware. The company became Interpace Corporation and in 1979 was purchased by Josiah Wedgwood & Sons. The plant was closed in 1984 and all production was moved to England.

More Franciscan Hacienda at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

All Franciscan Postings in this Blog

Details to follow. Thanks for listening .... ☺☺☺☺

Pottery Buys: Pacific Clay Products, Sango, Leigh Potters, Nasco, Mitterteich, Iroquois, Preston-Hopkinson, Noritake, Sone

2009-12-09T15:51:00.000-08:00

This is a going to be a fairly large entry as I am still behind and just haven't been able to document my buys for a while. As always I will update details as time permits.

RECENT BUYS

Pacific Clay Products Leaf DishDescription - Pastel Blue/Green leaf shape dish with 3 raised veins on the interior.10 1/2" x 8" 1 1/2". Small chip on tip of leaf. Underglaze depression (manufacturing defect) roughly 1/4" square on interior. 3 slightly raised feet and sagger marks on bottom. Pacific China Mark on bottom is badly faded and barely readable. Estimated (11/09) retail value $35.00.
Historical Data - Pacific Clay Products Company was the result of a consolidation of several Los Angeles area potteries in the early 1900's. In 1932 they issued Hostess Ware in competition with Bauer Potteries very successful colored dinnerware lines. The company continued to produce quality ware until 1942 when the plant was converted to defense work. The company is still in business, but only produces tile for construction purposes.

More Pacific Clay Products at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Sango Maui Gravy Boat

Description -- Larry Laslo Collection, Pattern 7001. Orange, gray & black tropical floral design on white body with attached underplate. Overall dimensions 7 1/2" diameter x 2" high. Excellent used condition with no damage. Made in Korea. First issued in 1986 and discontinued in 1992. Current (11/09) replacement value $39.99.

Historical Data -- Sango Ceramics Indonesia is the leading ceramics tableware distributer based in Indonesia. They have fine china, porcelain, and stoneware for home as well as for the hospitality industry manufactured in a number of countries. Their products are exported and sold everywhere.

More Sango at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Leigh Potters Mayfair Cream Soup Set

Description -- Mayfair is part of the Leigh Ware line issued by Leigh Potters in the late 1920's. The Cream color of the body is a result of the Umbertone Body rather than a glaze treatment. The platinum trim is heavily worn on the underplate but essentially intact on the bowl and handles. The underplate is 7 1/8" in diameter, the bowl opening diameter 5" x foot 3 1/4" diameter x 2" deep. Both pieces have an orange flower decoration with black leaves, Very good used condition with age related glaze crazing on the body, but no chips or cracks. This is a another beautiful example of depression era Ohio River Pottery. I am estimating replacement value at around $35.00

Historical Data -- Leigh Potters first appears in Alliance, Ohio records in the late 1920's after purchasing the Crescent Pottery. It was another of the many Sebring amily potteries in the area. Operations ceased in the early 1930'a, another victim of the Great Depression.

More Leigh Potters at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Nasco Mountain Woodland Lot

More Nasco at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

All Nasco Postings in this Blog

Mitterteich Alpine Vegetable Bowl

Description -- Bavarian China. All white body with with raised vertical ribs extending down the interior well sides. 9 7/8" opening x 4 1/2" foot x 2 7/8" deep. Excellent used condition with no damage. Current (12/09) replacement value $39.99.

Historical Data -- Mitterteich has been producing household porcelain, hotel porcelain and ovenware dishes for highest requirements in product and design quality under original german hard porcelain production standards for 120 years. Image, competence, elegance, harmony, credibility, quality, design and lifestyle are the defining characteristics of porzellan mitterteich. (Source - Company profile)

More Mitterteich at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

All Mitterteich Postings in this Blog

Iroquois Garland Salad Plate
Description -- White body with a blue circle around blue & pink stylized flowers, design by Ben Seibel. 8" diameter. Impromptu Line. Excellent used condition with minor usage scratchs. Issue dates unknown. Current replacement value is $7.99.

Historical Data -- Iroquois China was located in Syracuse, N.Y. from 1905-1969. 1946 introduced "Casual China" designed by Russel Wright. 1959/60 stopped production of hotel ware, except for Casual, Impromptu, and Informal all Ben Seibel designs. 1969 ceased operations.

Ben Seibel -- Ben Seibel set up his own studio in the late 1940's where he worked with a small staff until his death in 1985 at age 67. His output, prolific and varied, included dinnerware, glassware, stainless steel flatware, metal and wood tabletop accessories, furniture and lamps.

More Iroquois at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Preston-Hopkinson Church Plate
Description -- Preston Hopkinson Commemorative Plate Immanuel Lutheran Church Darling, Minnesota. 10 1/8" diameter, smooth rim, gold trim & verge line. Church decal in black. Church history 1893 - 1967. Very Good used condition with no chips, cracks or crazing, but several suface scratches that can only be seen close up.

Historical Data -- Preston-Hopkinson was established in Lynchburg, Virginia in 1949, pioneering the art of developing photographic images onto porcelain plates. Their Commemorative Plates are known the world over and are still being produced. Their art files date back to the founding of the company and undoubtedly contain the photographs of many historic buildings and sacred churches that are now but a memory.

More Church Plates At Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Noritake Casablanca Gravy Boat

More Noritake at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

All Noritake Postings in this Blog

Sone Pattern 1964 Gravy Boat & Serving Bowl

Description -- Aqua Bamboo design with platinum trim on white body, smooth edge. Gravy Boat - overall dimensions 8 3/4" x 5 3/4" x 3 3/8". Excellent used condition with no damage. Current (11/09) replacement value is $19.99. Serving Bowl - overall dimensions 10" x 7 3/4" x 1 7/8". Good used condition with fairly heavy trim wear. Current (11/09) replacement value is $31.99.

Historical Data -- Sone is one of the many Japanese Potteries known worldwide for their fine ware.

More Sone at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Details to follow. Thanks for listening .... ☺☺☺☺

Pottery Sales: Fine China of Japan, Franciscan, Metlox, Stetson, Carrollton, Nasco, Johnson Brothers, Lenox

2009-12-07T12:52:00.000-08:00

It looks as if I will only be able to keep track of what is happening until after the Holidays and than add the details later. This will be particularly true of new acquisitions as I don't really have time to photograph and list everything.

RECENT SALES

Fine China of Japan Platinum Rose Dinnerware Lot
Description - Gray/White roses on rims, platinum trim and verge. Discontinued in 1977. Excellent used condition with no chips, cracks or crazing.
Historical Data -- Fine China of Japan has issued many beautiful patterns over the years. I don't know much about the company, but they appear to have worked under contract for many large U.S. retailers (Sears, Wards, etc.etc.). The mark may have been used by a distribution agency in Japan representing them.

This Lot consisted of:

3 Dinner Plates (replacement value 11/09 $9.99 @

6 Coupe Soup Bowls (replacement value 11/09 $9.99 @

7 Bread Plates (replacement value 11/09 $4.99 @

Franciscan Sculptures Primary White Cereal Bowls
Description -- California Pottery, Sculptures Line. 7 3/8" opening diameter x 3 3/4" foot ring x 1 1/4" deep, solid white body. Primary pieces could be used with any of the sculpture patterns in that color. Excellent used condition with no chips, cracks or crazing. One bowl has a partial bottom mark the other two have none. Current (11/09) replacement value $33.99 each.

Historical Data -- Gladding, McBean and Company started in 1875. The company grew and acquired other potteries. They made sewer pipes, floor tiles, dinnerwares, and art pottery with a variety of trademarks. In 1934, dinnerware and art pottery were sold under the name Franciscan Ware. The company became Interpace Corporation and in 1979 was purchased by Josiah Wedgwood & Sons. The plant was closed in 1984 and all production was moved to England.

Sculptures Line -- When Sculptures was introduced in 1977 it offered consumers the freedom of choosing to set their tables with pieces that were all in the same pattern or giving each place setting a different but complimentary design. Discontinued in 1983.

More Franciscan Sculpture at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

All Franciscan Sculpture Postings in this Blog

Metlox Red Rooster Plates
Description -- California Pottery, Poppytrail Division, Provincial Shape One. 10" diameter dinner plates & 6 3/8" diameter bread plates, brown rim, rooster center. Excellent used condition, no damage. First issued in 1955 and discontinued in 1979.(06/09) replacement values (06/09) dinner plates $17.99 each, bread plates $7.99 each.

Vintage Advertising -- 1968 Metlox Brochure - "Early American with the exciting red coloring that lends style and life to Provincial Ware. The smokey effect on the edges and handles suggest age and enhance the antique feeling."

Historical Data -- The beginning of Metlox Manufacturing Company dates back to 1927 in Manhattan Beach, Ca when Willis and T. C. Prouty became interested in producing the ceramic portion of neon signs.Metlox Manufacturing Company was incorporated in the state of California in 1933. Metlox Manufacturing Company's incorporation was terminated on January 4, 1988.

More Metlox at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

All Metlox Postings in this Blog

Stetson STT 125 Dinnerware Lot
Description -- Yellow and black blooming dogwood flowers on white body. Made in America with Eagle inkstamped on reverse (Many Stetson pieces were marked like this or simply left unmarked). Excellent used condition with no damage. I am listing a variety of pieces in this pattern.This was a combined lot sale as follows:
2 cup & Saucer Sets 4 Salad Plates 1 Serving Bowl

Historical Data -- Stetson was founded by Louis Stetson in Lincoln Illinois as a decorating company using blanks purchased from other companies (primarily the Mt Clemens Pottery). In 1946 they purchased the Illinois China Company in order to make their own ware. Stetson China used decal transfers for its entire lifetown except for a three year period, 1954 - 1956, when it used hand painting exclusively. They went out of business in 1965. Nearly all of their ware was sold to jobbers in Chicago to be used as gas station and grocery store premiums.

More Stetson at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

All Stetson Postings in this Blog

Carrollton Floral Sprays Platter
Description -- Pattern #148. All white body, scalloped edge with gold trim and highlights. Yellow ball like flowers with brown lines. 11 5/8" x 8 1/2". Good used condition with no chips or cracks. There is light crazing, trim wear and some under glaze staining in the well. Estimated replacement $39.99.

Historical Data -- Carrollton China, East Liverpool, Ohio - established 1903 -was one of the eight major American china production firms to merge in 1929 under the American Chinaware Corporation, along with Knowles Taylor Knowles, Pope Gosser and the Harker Pottery Company due to the rapid decline in the industry during the Depression. The merger was short lived and closed it's doors in 1932.

Nasco Japan Mountain Woodland Jam Pot Set

Description -- Made in Japan. All white body with attached underplate. Brown country scene in center, multicolored highlights. overall dimensions 5 3/8" high with lid x 3" foot ring x 5 3/8" high. Excellent used condition with a single small ding in the inner rim of the pot. There is light age crazing close up. Beautiful bright colors with no fading. Nasco Mountain Woodland mark on bottom. Current (05/09) replacement value $36.99. Very difficult to find in this great condition with the top and ladle.

Historical Data -- Nasco was a major importer of household and gift items from around the world but their main source was post-war Japanese manufacturers.

More Nasco at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

All NASCO postings in this blog

Johnson Brothers Mt. Rushmore Mug
Description -- 3 3/8", high. Sepia background with multicolored highlights of Mt. Rushmore. Excellent used condition with no damage.

Historical Data -- Johnson Brothers China was established in Stoke-on-Trent (Staffordshire Area) England. The company remains an international leader in the tableware industry.

More Johnson Brothers at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

All Johnson Brothers postings in this blog

Lenox Federal Gold Bread Plates
Description -- Classics Collection. 6 3/8" diameter, all white body with gold trim and verge line. Excellent used condition with no chips, cracks or crazing. First issued in 1987 and discontinued in 2004. Current (04/09) replacement value $15.99 each.

Historical Data -- Lenox is the name of a porcelain maker. Walter Scott Lenox and Jonathan Coxon, Sr., founded the Ceramic Art Company in Trenton, New Jersey, in 1889. In 1906, Lenox left and started his own company called Lenox. The company makes a porcelain that is similar to Irish Belleek. Their superior dinnerware has made the company famous. Lenox was bought by Department 56 in 2005.

More Lenox at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

All Lenox postings in this blog

Details as time allows. Thanks for listening .... ☺☺☺☺

Pottery Sales - Lenox, United Airlines, Franciscan, Royal USA, Mikasa, Hall

2009-11-27T17:47:00.000-08:00

As I noted in my last entry I am literally swamped with the amount of updating I have to make on my Atomic Mall store to comply with the new Google requirements. I will add details as time allows until I can catch up.

RECENT SALES

Lenox Special Order Clipper Ship Plates

Description -- All white body with blue trim, five 10 1/2" diameter dinner plates and five 6 1/4" bread plates. Estimated replacement value (11/09) dinner plates $24.99 each, bread plates $9.99 each. This is a Lenox special order series. This sale included the following plates:
4 Dinner Plates - Black Prince, Sweepstakes, Great Republic, Northern Lights
4 Bread Plates - Great Republic, Black Prince, Galatea, Northern Lights.
I know there were more in the series, but I do not know how many.

Historical Data -- Lenox is the name of a porcelain maker. Walter Scott Lenox and Jonathan Coxon, Sr., founded the Ceramic Art Company in Trenton, New Jersey, in 1889. In 1906, Lenox left and started his own company called Lenox. The company makes a porcelain that is similar to Irish Belleek. Their superior dinnerware has made the company famous. Lenox was bought by Department 56 in 2005. Since that time much if not all Lenox production has shifted off shore (mostly to China) but is clearly marked as such.

More Lenox at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

View All Lenox Postings In This Blog

Noritake United Airlines Sauce Bowl
Description -- 2 5/8" diameter x 1 1/2" deep, small abstract gray splash design. Excellent used condition with no damage. Leftovers from the days when airlines actually tried to please their passengers by serving lavish full course meals on real china.

Historical Data -- The Noritake Company was established in the village of Noritake near Nagoya Japan by Baron Morimura in January 1904. Today it is one of the premier makers of fine China in the world.

More United Airline China at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

View All Noritake Postings In This Blog

Franciscan Coronado Platter
Description -- California Pottery. 13" x 10", Aqua with matte finish, swirled edge. Excellent used condition with no chips, cracks or crazing. Current replacement value (11/09) $33.99.

Historical Data -- Gladding, McBean and Company started in 1875. The company grew and acquired other potteries. They made sewer pipes, floor tiles, dinnerwares, and art pottery with a variety of trademarks. In 1934, dinnerware and art pottery were sold under the name Franciscan Ware. The company became Interpace Corporation and in 1979 was purchased by Josiah Wedgwood & Sons. The plant was closed in 1984 and all production was moved to England.

More Franciscan at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

View All Franciscan Postings In This Blog

Royal (USA) Old Curiosity Shoppe Chop Plate

Description -- 13 3/8" diameter, Hinges on rim. This piece is prized by collectors because it shows the interior of the Old Curiosity Shoppe. This is the larger of the two chop plates in this pattern. It is in excellent used condition with no damage. Estimated (05/09) replacement value $35.00.

Historical Data -- Royal China operated in Ohio from 1934 to 1986. It was purchased by the Jeanette Glass Corp in 1969 but continued to operate under the Royal name. Operations ceased in 1986.

More Old Curiosity Shop at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

View All Royal USA Postings In This Blog

Mikasa Color Spectrum Chop Plate
Description -- Pattern CA-101. 12 3/4" diameter. Excellent used condition with no damage. Current (05/09) replacement value $25.99. Issued in 1992 and discontinued in 1993. Great Party Platter or display piece.

Historical Data -- In the 1930's, Mikasa was established as an international trading company based in Secaucus, New Jersey. Named in honor of Prince Mikasa, the youngest brother of Emperor Hirohito, Mikasa soon became one of the most recognized Japanese brand names in the West. The company itself never attempted to "manufacture" any of its dinnerware. Rather, the Mikasa branded items were imported from Japan, Ireland, England, France, and Germany. By the 1950's customer requests were pouring in from all parts of the country, and department stores could not shelve enough stock to meet demand. By the early 1960's, Mikasa had established a reputation as "the pioneer of American casual." The 1970's brought new retail store locations. Showrooms and warehouses appeared in Canada, Europe, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand. In an effort to stay as competitive as possible during the 1980's, Mikasa added crystal stemware, stainless steel flatware and other household accessories to its product offerings. Today, Mikasa continues to leverage the momentum it has built over the decades since its start.

More Mikasa at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

View All Mikasa Postings In This Blog

Hall Eva Zeisel Fantasy Serving Bowl
Description -- Hallcraft Line, classic shape. All white body, abstract black lines with yellow intersect dots. 11 3/4" x 8 7/8" x 2 1/4" high. Excellent used condition with light bottom wear. Current 06/09 replacement value $44.99.

Historical Data -- Hall China Company started in East Liverpool, Ohio, in 1903. The firm made many types of wares. Collectors search for the Hall teapots made from the 1920s to the 1950s. The dinnerwares of the same period, especially Autumn Leaf pattern, are also popular. The Hall China Company is still working. (Kovels).

More Hall at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

View All Hall Postings In This Blog

Thanks for listening .... ☺☺☺☺

Pottery - Buy & Sell - Noritake, Red Wing, Taylor, Smith & Taylor, Villeroy & Boch, Winfield, Bauer, Paden City, Norcrest

2009-11-15T18:59:00.000-08:00

The time consumed by trying to bring all of my 2500 listings into compliance with the new Google Marketplace attribute requirements has proven to be overwhelming and as a result I keep falling further and further behind in updating this blog. I am adding recent changes here and add pics and details as time allows. My apologies for the delays.

RECENT SALES

Red Wing Violin Wall Pocket
Description -- 15 1/2" x 6 1/2" x 2 1/4". This beautiful wall pocket was produced in the mid 1960's, shortly before Red Wing Potteries closed their doors for good. Glossy Orange/Brown glaze with black trim, grooves & holes on top and bottom to hold strings, raised bottom mark (RED WING USA 907). Absolutely perfect condition with no chips cracks,crazing or fading. Estimated (10/09) retail around $60.00.

These Violin Wall Pockets were made is several shapes and many glaze colors.

Historical Data -- Red Wing Stoneware Company was founded in 1877. After the plant burned in 1901 it was renamed the Red Wing Union Stone ware Co. Red Wing began producing decorative pieces and dinnerware around 1920. Renamed Red Wing Potteries, Inc. in 1936. Production ceased in 1967.

More Red Wing Pottery at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Noritake Hawthorne Dinner Plate

Description -- Pattern 4914. 10" diameter. Green Greek key, Oriental style floral sprays. First issued in 1948 and discontinued in 1952. Excellent condition with no chips,cracks or crazing. Estimated (05/09)replacement value on these plates is $27.99 each.

Probable pattern name derivation. Hawthorn is a spiky bush or tree found in Europe, northwestern Africa, and western Asia. In England it is grown as a hedge plant. Hawthorne is a topographic or habitational surname for someone who lived near a hawthorn hedge or in a place with such a name

Historical Data -- The Noritake Company was established in the village of Noritake near Nagoya Japan by Baron Morimura in January 1904. Today it is one of the premier makers of fine China in the world.

More Noritake at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

View All Noritake Postings In This Blog

RECENT BUYS

Taylor, Smith & Taylor
LuRay Pastel Blue Mini Sugar Bowl
Earlier this month I was at Goodwill with a friend who is a glass dealer on Ebay. She came running up to me with this sugar bowl and told me that she thought it was LuRay and that I might want it. I quickly confirmed her identification and said that I would take it if she didn't want it. She doesn't deal in pottery so I ended up with it. Most Luray does not really have high replacement values, and I was very surprised to find that this was a mini bowl and has a current replacement value of $100.00. It is 3" high and is in excellent used condition except for a single unglazed dot on one side. Now I have to find a nice piece of glass to repay my friend.

Description -- Empire/Laurel Shape, 3". Smooth, pastel blue (officially "Windsor Blue") body. Excellent used condition with a small unglazed dot on one side (manufacturing defect). First issued in 1940 and discontinued in 1945. This dish is dated Mar 1941. Current (11/09) replacement cost is $99.95. This beautiful pattern was named after the colorful Luray Caverns of Virginia. Here's an Interesting Wikipedia article about the Luray Caverns

Important Note -- This shape of demitasse was not in the original 1938 issue of Luray. There was a demitasse chocolate set that was issued in 1939 & discontinued in 1940 but it was all in a special demitasse shape that was first issued in 1930. This shape was phased out in 1940 by the Empire/Laurel shape used for Luray ware. Both shapes can be found in the solid Luray colors and with decals. All patterns that used the original shape are referred to as chocolate sets in order to avoid confusion.

Historical Data -- The Taylor, Smith & Taylor Pottery was founded in 1899 by C. A. Smith and Col. John N. Taylor. The firm remained under the Smith ownership and management until early 1973 when the plant was purchased by Anchor Hocking Corporation to become the foundation of its Pottery Division. TS&T closed in 1981.

More LuRay at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

All Taylor, Smith & Taylor Postings in this blog

Villeroy & Boch Design Naif Ashtray
I picked up this ashtray on the same Goodwill trip as the above Luray. I am usually not overly enthused over European pieces, but I like Villeroy & Boch and I was already familiar with design Naif so I knew I was getting a fair deal.

This is a 4 3/8" ashtray and shows a village surrounded by fields with farmers and chickens in them. Current (11/09) replacement value is $21.99.

The ashtrays and most of the basic dinnerware pieces were almost all done in six different designs. It is a very large set and has a lot of collector interest. Naif (Naive) Design dinnerware by Villeroy & Boch has been in production since about 1978, completely inspired by the naive (primitive or simplistic designs like Grandma Moses in America) paintings of a now famous artist, Gerard Laplau; Laplau's name now appears on each piece of dinnerware, within the print. It is said that Laplau first drew the attention of those who publish the Unicef cards, and about the same time, was noticed by Villeroy & Boch. Each item depicts one of Laplau's renditions of old French rural and urban life, as well as other various themes such as the Biblical story, Noah's Ark.

Historical Data -- Villeroy and Boch dates back into the 1700's in Luxembourg. It is still one of the most respected producers in Europe.

More Design Naif at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

All Villeroy and Boch Postings in this Blog

Winfield Green Bamboo Lot
This Swap Meet buy was a mixed lot and although I knew that Winfield does not seem to be that popular and seems to have less value than some of the better known California potteries, I personally think that many of their patterns (including Green Bamboo)are beautiful and they issued many serving pieces (rice bowls, Sake sets, etc) that are not found in sets from the others.

Here's the lot:

13" Divided Vegetable Bowl
9 1/2" Round Serving Bowl
7 1/2" Salad Plate
6 5/8" Round Covered Casserole
4 5/8" Mini Coffee Pot (no lid)(large crack)
Pr Salt & Pepper Shakers

Historical Data -- The Winfield China Company was established in Santa Monica, Ca. in 1929 and continued making fine dinnerware until 1962. Their lines have a strong Pacific Rim influence, often having rice bowls, sake cups, and a variety of small side dish shapes. The lines were either solid colored or more frequently decorated with hand painted motifs

More Winfield at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall.

All Winfield Postings in this Blog

Winfield WIN58 Rectangular Platters
This Swap Meet windfall was a complete accident and I have to admit had nothing to do with my knowledge or experience with pottery dinnerware. I had just bought the Green Bamboo Lot described above and while I was packaging those pieces I spotted these two platters. While I knew immediately that they were Winfield (clearly marked). I mistakenly thought that they were part of the Green Bamboo Set. When I asked how much additional for these two the seller just told me to take them as part of the original deal. I did not feel that I was taking advantage of hin because most of these Winfield rectangular platters do not have a particularly high replacement value. I was taken aback when I got home and discovered that they were WIN58 and had replacement values of $60 (small) and $90 (large). They are coupe shape duotone with light green interiors and white bottoms with no trim. The smaller is 11 7/8" x 8" and the larger 14 1/4" x 10 1/8".
Historical Data -- The Winfield China Company was established in Santa Monica, Ca. in 1929 and continued making fine dinnerware until 1962. Their lines have a strong Pacific Rim influence, often having rice bowls, sake cups, and a variety of small side dish shapes. The lines were either solid colored or more frequently decorated with hand painted motifs

More Winfield at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall.

All Winfield Postings in this Blog

Bauer Ringware Burgundy Dinner Plate
Swap Meet find - Believe it or not we don't see much Bauer in the wild here in San Diego and even less Ringware so I was pleased to find this plate. Like all Ringware dinner plates it is 9 1/4" in diameter and has the trademark embossed rings. It is in excellent shape and has a current (11/09) replacement value of $84.95.

Historical Data -- Starting in Louisville, Kentucky, and then flourishing in Los Angeles, California, J. A. Bauer Pottery Company created simple, yet beautiful stoneware from the late 1880s to the early 1960s. With lines ranging from redware flowerpots to brilliantly colored dinnerware, Bauer Pottery was a staple in American homes for many decades.

Today, the work of J.A. Bauer has been reintroduced by a ceramics studio in Los Angeles, located just minutes from the original plant. The new Bauer line, Bauer 2000, is being produced using original pieces as models, with an emphasis on items originally manufactured by Bauer in the 1930s and 40s. To the best of my knowledge all of their ware is marked "2000".

More Bauer at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

All Bauer Postings on this Blog

Paden City Pottery
Golden Specter Vegetable Bowl
Another Swap Meet Find and another pottery I see very little of especially in good condition. In my experience much Ohio River Pottery of this vintage was bought to be used and was used until it was no longer usable. This bowl is in excellent used condition. 8 7/8" diameter and 2 1/2" deep. Coupe shape, white body with gold trim and a beautiful yellow rose design. Current (11/09) replacement value $21.99.

Historical Data -- George Lasell founded Paden City Pottery in 1914 with a plant in Sisterville, West Virginia and offices in Paden City. Paden City is credited with originating the underglaze decal and the Caliente colored glaze. - - By 1949 Paden City Pottery had six tunnel kilns and personnel totaling 800. Russell Wright did some patterns for them. The plant was closed and the Company ceased to exist in 1963.

More Paden City Pottery at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Norcrest China Co
35th Anniversary Pickle Dish
Swap Meet again. I know absolutely nothing about Norcrest, but this was such a beautiful dish with it's jade border and gold well design that I just couldn't pass it up. * 1/2" x 4 7/8" x 1 1/2". Backmarked under glaze Norcrest - Portland, Or - Japan. This is the only piece I have, although a few different pieces have passed through my hands over the years. This Appears to have been an import and distribution company dealing mostly in souvenirs. I have also seen a lot of Norcrest "Smokey the Bear" items.

Enough for now.

Thanks for listening .... ☺☺☺☺

Pottery Buy & Sell - Stangl, Franciscan, Lifetime, Alfred Meakin

2009-11-04T13:38:00.000-08:00

RECENT SALES

Lifetime China Prairie Gold Platter
Description -- White Body with gold edge ring and gold wheat on rim. 13 1/4" x 10 3/8". Excellent used condition with light use wear. No chips,cracks or crazing. Current (11/09) replacement value $27.99. This is the smaller of the two 13" platters in this pattern. The other is 13 3/4". The replacement value is a little lower for the larger plate.
Historical Data -- The Lifetime China Company was based in Alliance, Ohio. They were a decorating and distributing company. The blanks for this plate was probably made for them by the Homer Laughlin Company.

More Lifetime China at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Alfred Meakin Connaught SaucersDescription -- Great wall or shelf display items. Multicolored floral pattern with gold trim. These are 5 7/8" saucers. No damage, very good used condition except for visible crazing closeup. I estimate (10/09) replacement value on these saucers to be $4.99 each.

Historical Data -- Alfred was the brother of James and George Meakin and founded the pottery in 1874. He ran a very successful business mass producing tableware for both the domestic market, and the growing export market of the 40's and 50's. In 1976 the pottery merged with Myott, Son and Co, who were later bought by the Churchill Group in 1991.

More Alfred Meakin at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

RECENT BUYS

Stangl PitcherI purchased this pretty Stangl pitcher and did not realize until I got it home that there was a major chip under the spout (I must be getting old). I will probably not list it, but it has an interesting mark that I intend to research and report on here later.

More Stangl at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

All Stangl articles in this blog

Franciscan Tiempo Salad PlatesDescription -- California Pottery. Metropolitan Shape designed by Morris B. Sanders in 1940. Tiempo was a single color version of the duotone Metropolitan pattern. Each color was assigned a name from nature and a standard name (gray-stone,apricot-copper, green-sprout). First issued in 1949 and discontinued in 1954. Excellent used condition with no chips, cracks or crazing. Light wear.

Historical Data -- Gladding, McBean and Company started in 1875. The company grew and acquired other potteries. They made sewer pipes, floor tiles, dinnerwares, and art pottery with a variety of trademarks. In 1934, dinnerware and art pottery were sold under the name Franciscan Ware. The company became Interpace Corporation and in 1979 was purchased by Josiah Wedgwood & Sons. The plant was closed in 1984 and all production was moved to England.

More Tiempo at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

More Tiempo Articles in this blog

Thanks for listening .... ☺☺☺☺

Pottery Sales - Lenox, Syracuse, Catalina

2009-10-24T20:16:00.000-07:00

I'm having trouble catching up on things, but I have made a few sales and I want to get them listed here before things get to far behind. I'll fill in the details later.

RECENT SALES

Lenox Poppies on Blue Covered Sugar Bowl

Description -- Chinastone Line. 2 5/8" high, deep blue accents, red flowers. Excellent used condition with no damage. First issued in 1984 and discontinued in 2007. Current (05/09) replacement value $44.99.

Historical Data -- Lenox is the name of a porcelain maker. Walter Scott Lenox and Jonathan Coxon, Sr., founded the Ceramic Art Company in Trenton, New Jersey, in 1889. In 1906, Lenox left and started his own company called Lenox. The company makes a porcelain that is similar to Irish Belleek. Their superior dinnerware has made the company famous. Lenox was bought by Department 56 in 2005.

All Lenox Articles in this blog

More Lenox Poppies on Blue at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Syracuse Restaurantware SY178 Plates

Description -- Restaurant ware. All white body with scalloped rim.. Pink Cherry blossoms on black branches design. 10" diameter. Excellent condition with no chips, cracks or crazing. Light wear. Current (06/09) estimated replacement value $12.99 each.

Historical Data -- Syracuse China, located in Lyncourt, New York (a suburb of Syracuse), was founded in 1871 as Onondaga Pottery Company (O.P. Co.) in the town of Geddes next to Syracuse and is still producing to this day. Initially a producer of earthenware, in the late 19th century, O.P.Co., under President James Pass, developed a new china body and won the medal for translucent china at the World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago in 1893. In 1897 production turned to the vitreous china body. Its first colored china body, "Old Ivory," appeared in 1926. The company thrived with its hotel and railroad sales. The narrow-bodied "Econo-Rim" was tailored for the cramped table space of dining cars. Highly sought after collectible patterns sell regularly on eBay and at estate sales. The company was renowned for its fine china designs until 1970 when it limited its production to mostly restaurant dinnerware. They purchased the Mayer China Co and the Shenango China Co in 1984. In 1995, Libbey Inc. of Toledo, Ohio purchased the Syracuse China Company to complement its strong presence in the food service industry. My best information is that Libbey is closing the plant in 2009 and will manufacture off shore with the Syracuse trademark.

All Syracuse Articles in this blog

More Syracuse at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Catalina Island Double Handled Vase

Description -- California Pottery. Circa 1930's. Solid turquoise blue body with raised in mold mark on bottom. Handle to handle 8", opening diameter 4", foot ring 5 1/4", height 6". Beautiful display piece for any collection. Very good condition except for age wear (mostly on the handles) and a dot glaze flake on one handle. There is a small unglazed area on bottom (probably a manufacturing defect). I estimate (08/09) current retail value at around $135.00.

Historical Data -- Catalina Island Pottery was first established on Catalina Island in the 1920's, when William Wrigley, Jr. founded a pottery to make roofing & patio tiles & bricks from clays found on the island. In 1930 dinnerware was added followed in 1931 by art pottery. In the late 1930's the company was sold to Gladding Mcbean (Franciscan). Because of transportation expenses all production was relocated to the mainland and the name Catalina soon disappeared.

Details Later.

Thanks for listening.... ☺☺☺☺

Google Base Attributes

2009-10-20T15:18:00.000-07:00

Well I have been missing for the last 10 days, but not idle. I finally have all of the text stripped out of my descriptions that was making google unhappy and I am back in googles product search. Who knows? Maybe I'll have a sale or two this holiday season.

Speaking of sales,I am going through my listings now and reducing prices from now through 31 Dec 2009. For example: Most of my items are already priced at 65% of replacement or avg online cost. I am cutting a lot of these by another 20-50% for the Holidays. If that's not good enough you can always make and offer. There's a button for that on almost all of my listings. I really am trying to get rid of some of the items that I have had on sale for years and replace them with freshher (more interesting) merchandise.

At any rate I should have things back to normal enough so that I can start writing here on a more frequent basis again. For thise of you who follow my blog regularly my apologies.

Thanks for listening .... ☺☺☺☺

Swap Meet Pottery - Franciscan, Haviland Limoges, Franklin Mint, Homer Laughlin Fiesta, Fukagawa, Stangl

2009-10-11T16:58:00.000-07:00

Interesting weekend!! No new sales to report yet, but lots of nice buys. As usual I will have to amend this post with photos and additional info as I research and list all of these. Which brings up a good point. For those who haven't noticed I am constantly updating all of the posts in this blog as I find more info. The best way to use my blog for info is to enter what you want to find in the search window in the upper left hand corner. This will change the blog roll to show every entry that contains your search word. What you read today may be changed tomorrow, so please feel free to visit often.

Lot of Franciscan Picnic
When I first saw this small lot of Franciscan Picnic I almost walked right by because I knew that I have a very large inventory of Picnic, but then I took a second look and realized that I didn't have any of the pieces that I was seeing in front of me. Asking the price sealed the deal because it was another steal. Here's a list: butter/cheese dish cover, 5 footed cups, salad plate & bread plate.
Description -- Excellent used condition with no chips, cracks or crazing. Franciscan's Picnic is a brightly colored pattern of green and yellow flowers at the center on a yellow/cream background. First issued in 1973.

Historical Data -- Franciscan ware was first produced by Gladding-McBean and Company of Glendale, California in 1934. The facility was closed in 1984 and all production was moved to England.

Picnic Line -- The Picnic Line was designed to reflect the 1970's. Bold colored florals, dark brooding exotica and happy sunny irreverence are Picnic themes.

All Franciscan Articles in this Blog

More Franciscan Picnic at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Franklin Mint "Le Cordon Bleu" Molds
On my first pass I ignored these molds because I didn't think they were a fit for my store, but when I was leaving I took a closer look and asked the price. Between the Franklin Mint mark and a very low price, I decided to take them and now I am glad. They are beautiful.
Description -- White body with maroon trim, raised multicolerd designs. Current 10/09 replacement value is $19.99. Excellent used condition with no chips, cracks or crazing. Hole predrilled for wall hanging. Historical Data -- The Franklin Mint is a private corporation founded in 1964, based in Middletown, Pennsylvania which markets coin-like tokens and other collectables of its own designs. It was founded by Joseph Segal.

Franklin Mint at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Haviland Limoges France
I was really taken aback when I found this pair of Haviland Limoges Boullion Cups sitting out on a table. It is not unusual to find good fragile hard paste porcelain at the swap meet, but to find it in this pristine condition is rare. They were not a super bargain, but I am very pleased to be able to add them to my inventory.

Description -- 3 1/4" diameter x 4 3/3" handle to handle x 2" tall. White body with heavy gold trim. Green and violet geometric band over green and gold branch ring, 2 thin black rings above and below design. Excellent condition with no damage other than light bottom and trim wear. Both bottom marks were used from 1876-1930. Estimated (10/09) replacement value $30.00 each.

Historical Data -- Haviland Porcelain was established in Limoges,France in the first half of the 19th century and is still operating today. Haviland is probably the best known of the many Limoges Potteries.

Limoges -- Limoges is a generic name for hard paste porcelain that was produced in the Limoges region of France beginning in the 19th century. Dozens of French and German Factories have been involved and more than 400 marks have been used.

All Haviland Articles in this Blog

More Limoges at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Homer Laughlin Fiesta
Finding older Fiesta at my Swap Meet is very unusual, so I was pleasantly surprised to find this beautiful Old Ivory Chop plate that someone had brought from their house. The seller said it came from her mother and that seemed right judging from her age.

Description -- Cream Color, 12 1/4" diameter. Excellent used condition with no chips, cracks or crazing. Old Ivory (Cream) was issued from 1936-1951. This mark was used on Fiesta from 1936-1976. Glazed foot ring positively identifies it as older Fiesta. Current (10/09) replacement value 25.99.

Historical Data -- Founded in 1871 by Mr. Homer Laughlin, The Homer Laughlin China Company has been owned and operated by the Aaron and Wells families since their acquisition in 1897. Homer Laughlin remains the largest domestic pottery employing over 1100 skilled workers in a 37 acre facility.

Fiesta was designed by Fredrick Rhead and first introduced in 1936. It was temporarily discontinued in the early 1970's and contemporary (Post 86) fiesta was reintroduced in 1986.

All Homer Laughlin Articles in this Blog

More Homer Laughlin Fiesta at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Fukagawa Silver Bamboo
I had been looking at this Fukagawa Platter for a month, but the price was a little higher than I was comfortable with paying. The seller finally got tired of brnging it out all the time (or maybe he just got tired of me asking about it) and he agreed to what I consider a fair price.
Description -- Arita, Pattern 714. 16 3/8" x 12 3/8". Silver & Gray bamboo trees on white body with platinum trim. Excellent used condition with no chips, cracks or crazing. Current (10/09) replacement value $79.95.

Historical Data -- In 1894 the modern Fukagawa company was founded in Arita by Chuji Fukagawa, with the Fukagawa mark of Mount Fuji and a stream, as its trade mark. The Fukagawa company has served as purveyor for the Japanese Imperial Household since 1910 and only produces white true high temperature porcelain.

All Fukagawa Articles in this Blog

More Fukagawa at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Homer Laughlin Armand
I have seen a lot of Homer Laughlin Oven Serve in my day and this casserole has to be one of the best. Other than a few small flea bites it appears to have been unused.

Description -- Oven Serve Line. Ivory Body with embossed rib and scroll rim. Pink, white and yellow floral on cream body with platinum trim. 8 1/2" opening diameter, 5 1/4" foot ring, 3 1/2" high. Discontinued circa 1935. Excellent condition with no chips, cracks or crazing. Light wear. Estimated (10/09) replacement without the lid $48.00.

Historical Data -- Founded in 1871 by Mr. Homer Laughlin, The Homer Laughlin China Company has been owned and operated by the Aaron and Wells families since their acquisition in 1897. Homer Laughlin remains the largest domestic pottery employing over 1100 skilled workers in a 37 acre facility.

All Homer Laughlin Articles in this Blog

More Homer Laughlin Oven Serve at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Much more on all of these later. Thanks for listening.... ☺☺☺☺

Pottery Buy & Sell - Kikusui, Franciscan, Milk Glass, Myott, Royal (USA)

2009-10-08T14:24:00.000-07:00

Once again I'm forced to do my update in bits and pieces. Info will be added as I take pics, complete research and list items in the store.

RECENT SALES

Embossed Milk Glass Liquor Bottle

This was an unexpected sale as I have very little glass listed in the store even though I have a lot more sitting in inventory that I just never seem to get around to. I always thought this was a beautiful bottle.
Description -- Super display piece. 1969 Milk glass Liquor Bottle. Heavily raised overall stylized floral design. Appears to be made from a two piece mold. Cork lined milk glass stopper. Beautiful decanter. 12" high with lid on x 3 1/2" base diameter. No damage, excellent condition.

All Glassware Articles in this Blog

More Glassware at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Myott Melody Cereal Bowls
I have more Blue Melody in the store if anyone needs a piece or two.

Description -- English Pottery. 6 3/8" opening diameter. Blue floral rim and center, scalloped edge. Excellent condition with no damage. Current replacement value on these bowls is $9.99 each.

Historical Data -- Myott and Sons was established in Stoke-on-Trent (Staffordshire area) England in 1898 and was taken over by Churchill China in 1991.

All Myott Articles in this Blog

More Myott at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Royal (USA) Currier & Ives Sugar Bowl Lid
Ordinarily I would have just chucked the bowl here because it has a chip in it, but I had decided to keep it and simply offer it for free to go with the lid. An interesting side note here that many people are unaware of is that, in the vast majority of cases a lid is half the value of any covered piece, no matter how small it may be. I did send the bowl with the lid even though the buyer did not say if they wanted it or not.

Description -- White body with Steamboat and scrolls. The Bowl has a rim chip (see pics) and I am basically pricing the lid only and sending along the bowl. The lid is in excellent used condition with no chips, cracks or crazing. Current (05/09) replacement on the lid only is $7.99.

Historical Data -- After moving from Omaha, Nebraska, Royal China was established in Sebring, Ohio in 1934. Royal was purchased by Jeanette Glass in 1969 but continued to operate with Royal marks until closing in 1986.

Currier & Ives -- Currier and Ives is the most recognized Royal pattern. It was produced as a premium for the Atlantic & Pacific Tea Company. It was designed by Gordon Parker in 1949.

All Royal (USA) Articles in this Blog

More Currier & Ives at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

RECENT BUYS

Lot of Kikusui Dinnerware I seem to have an attraction for the many Japanese dinnerware companies that keep popping up and that I have never heard of. This Kikusui is one of them. All of these patterns seem to be similar and my bet is that they were all fired by potteries that have some contractual connection to Noritake, but I have to do a lot more research to prove it. Kikusui appears to be a 1920's company.

Kikusui at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Franciscan Nut Tree Dinner PlatesDescription -- California Pottery. Madeira Line. 10 1/2" diameter, Pastel Blue body with tan border & center that has a speckled flower design. Rim shape with rings designed to mimic wheel thrown pottery. Excellent used condition with no chips, cracks or crazing. One plate has a small rim flake and will be sold last. Current (10/11/09) replacement value on these plates is $10.99 each. First issued in 1970 and was discontinued in 1977.

Important Note-- Nut Tree was produced in two shapes. The American version was in the rim shaped Madeira line with rim rings that imitate handmade pottery. The English version was in the coupe shaped Haceinda line without the rings. Backstamps usually indentify the version. ("Franciscan - An American Dinnerware Tradition" by Bob Page and Dale Frederiksen)

Historical Data -- Gladding, McBean and Company started in 1875. The company grew and acquired other potteries. They made sewer pipes, floor tiles, dinnerwares, and art pottery with a variety of trademarks. In 1934, dinnerware and art pottery were sold under the name Franciscan Ware. The company became Interpace Corporation and in 1979 was purchased by Josiah Wedgwood & Sons. The plant was closed in 1984 and all production was moved to England.

More Franciscan at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Thanks for Listening.... ☺☺☺☺

Swap Meet Pottery - Nippon, Noritake, Fukagawa, W. German, Lenox, Harmony House

2009-10-04T15:38:00.000-07:00

Well I'm still trying to catch up and apparently not doing very well at it, but at least I'm trying. I did get to the Swap Meet Sat and today and picked up a few goodies. I'll just list them here and plug in the details as I have time. I'll get the pics and details posed later.

Noritake Nippon "The Yukon" CreamerWhen I spotted this creamer I knew that it was early 1900's. Noritake did a number of patterns in that time from tht for some reason started with "The". I have seen "The Kiva" before but this is a new one on me. I had to have it even thought the trim was badly worn. I suppose I will be too when I reach 100 years old.
Description -- All white body with gold trim. 3" high, 8 Oz capacity. Discontinued circa 1912. Very Good used condition Except for heavy trim wear. Current replacement value $19.99.
Historical Data -- The Noritake Company was established in the village of Noritake near Nagoya Japan by Baron Morimura in January 1904. Today it is one of the premier makers of fine China in the world.

More Noritake at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Fukagawa Arita Gold Bamboo Bud VasesA few minutes later I saw a pair of Fukagawa Gold Bamboo Bud Vases. These are a part of the extensive Gold Bamboo dinnerware set.
Description -- Arita, Pattern 901. 5 1/4" tall. Handpainted Gold & Gray bamboo trees on white body with gold trim. Excellent used condition with no chips, cracks or crazing. Estimated replacement value $12.99 each.
Historical Data -- In 1894 the modern Fukagawa company was founded in Arita by Chuji Fukagawa, with the Fukagawa mark of Mount Fuji and a stream, as its trade mark. The Fukagawa company has served as purveyor for the Japanese Imperial Household since 1910 and only produces white true high temperature porcelain.

More Fukagawa at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

West German SteinThis little Stein is something I would normally not be too interested in, but the bottom mark caught my attention. Normally items I have seen from West Germany are marked "West Germany" or W. Germany" or identified by the zone they are in "American Zone", but this one is inscribed "Germany Western" and I wanted to research it a little.
Description -- Medieval scenes in vivid colors Castles & Palaces. Twisted tree limb handle. No chips, cracks or crazing excellent used condition except for the top which needs cleaning. 4 1/2" tall x 2" opening diameter x 2 1/4" foot ring. Bottom inscribed "Made in Germany Western". I would guesstimate this as a 60's item.

Western Germany Stein at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Lenox Temperware Sprite LotWhen I first saw this lot of Lenox Sprite Temperware I passed on it because I have a fairly large inventory of Temperware pieces and they haven't generated a lot of interest, but as I was leaving I took asecond look and ask for a price. It was a giveaway and the three serving pieces made it a super deal so I had to buy.
Description -- Temperware Line. Brown edge rings on a light brown body. Decorated pieces in this pattern have stylized, multicolored flowers and butterflies. Issued from 1974 - 1981. Historical Data -- Lenox is the name of a porcelain maker. Walter Scott Lenox and Jonathan Coxon, Sr., founded the Ceramic Art Company in Trenton, New Jersey, in 1889. In 1906, Lenox left and started his own company called Lenox. The company makes a porcelain that is similar to Irish Belleek. Lenox was bought by Department 56 in 2005. The marks used by the firm have changed through the years and collectors prefer the earlier examples. (Source - Kovels)

Here's a list of pieces: 8 Bread Plates, Creamer, Covered Sugar Bowl, Round Casserole w/Handles, 4 Saucers.

More Lenox at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Harmony House Starlight I also found a couple of Harmony House Starlight Pieces, an oval serving bowl & a large oval platter. I have a number of pieces in this pattern including the platter, but the price was right and condition great. Usually Harmony House pieces do not have a manufacturers mark and this is no exception. However, I am fairly certain that this set was made by Seyei as it is identical to their Majesty #4976 pattern and the pieces are interchangable. Starlight was issued around 1963.
Historical Data -- In 1940, Sears introduced the Harmony House brand as an interior-decorating scheme that used four basic colors that could be coordinated with each other. (The year before, Sears catalogs featured "Charm House," a similar program.) Customers were encouraged to use a color wheel that was supplied in the catalog for coordinating colors. Eventually the color palette was expanded to 18 colors. The Harmony House style and color system was not merely limited to carpets and paints, either; the entire house could be furnished according to the colors.
The Harmony House line of dinnerware was made for Sears & Roebuck by a number of companies including Hall China, Homer Laughlin, Salem China, Universal and Fine China of Japan among others. The Harmony House Line was discontinued in 1968.

More Harmony House at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

For now, thanks for listening....☺☺☺☺

Pottery Buy & Sell Jackson China, Homer Laughlin, Princess House, Kari Designs, Mikasa

2009-10-02T17:25:00.000-07:00

I'm falling further behind here on the blog because of the issues with Google and also because sales are picking up. I'm going to use this entry to try and give a quick update but I will add to it as time allows.

RECENT SALES

Mikasa Holiday Elegance Santa & Sleigh FigurineDescription -- In original box. Pattern FK001. 11" long x 5 1/2" high. Fine China in excellent used condition with no damage. First issued in 2001 and discontinued in 2007. Current (05/09) replacement value $29.99.

Historical Data -- In the 1930's, Mikasa was established as an international trading company based in Secaucus, New Jersey. Named in honor of Prince Mikasa, the youngest brother of Emperor Hirohito, Mikasa soon became one of the most recognized Japanese brand names in the West. The company itself never attempted to "manufacture" any of its dinnerware. Rather, the Mikasa branded items were imported from Japan, Ireland, England, France, and Germany. By the 1950's customer requests were pouring in from all parts of the country, and department stores could not shelve enough stock to meet demand. Today, Mikasa continues to leverage the momentum it has built over the decades since its start.

More Mikasa at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Princess House Autumn Pavillion Tureen SetDescription -- This set has four pieces, Bowl, Lid, Base Trivet & Ladle. Embossed cream dots on an off-white body. Height to top of finial when mounted on base 13 1/2". Opening diameter 10". Handle to handle 13 1/2". Foot diameter 6 1/4". Base diameter 8". Ladle 11" long. Used like new condition with no chips, cracks or crazing. When I purchased this set it was in the original box. Unfortunately it was raining that day and the box had been soaked and basically disintegrated. First issued in 2004 and still active. Current (07/09) replacement value of the complete set $260.00. The Base is often sold separately as a trivet. I have been told that this set was a premium for Home Party Hostess's reaching a certain sales level and I see very few available anywhere.

Historical Data -- Princess House was founded in 1963 by Charlie Collis. By using Home Party Hostess's and a network of Lifestyle Consultants, they provide quality everyday and special occasion home products to consumers.

More Princess House at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

KariDesigns Bittersweet Nested Bowl SetDescription -- Brown bottoms and white bowl surfaces with Bittersweet floral designs. The largest is 10" by 7" and the smallest 6" x 4 1/4". Excellent used condition with no chips cracks or crazing. These bowls are so similar in general appearance to Stangl Pottery that I bought them without even looking at the marks. Very nice gift or display set.

Historical Data -- Info from Business Access Online (BAO) -- Karidesign, Inc is located in Wayland, MA. They make clean, classic designs for the tabletop. Elegant giftware design with an emphasis on clock, photoframes, candleholders, boxes and plaques.

RECENT BUYS

Jackson China Pink Hummingbird Demitasse Cup SetAnother Goodwill find that just stood up and hollered at me to take it home.
Description -- All white body, Pink hummingbird and floral design. Cup 2 1/4" high x 2 1/2" opening x 1 3/8" foot ring, saucer 4 5/8" diameter. Excellent used condition with no chips, cracks or crazing. Estimated 10/09 retail value $19.99 each. Saucer is marked "Made for Cook's Hotel & Restaurant Supply Co., New York. Date code A6 which indicates June of 1951 (the first year Jackson used this date code system). I have seen references on line that indicate that this pattern was primarily marketed to Oriental Restaurants. I have seen it offered in blue also.

Historical Data -- In 1917 Jackson China was founded on the site of the old Bohemian Art Pottery in Falls Creek, Pa. In 1940, Jackson Featherweight China, designed by M A Van Nostram began marketing as "Royal Jackson". The line was discontinued in the 1960's. To the best of my knowledge production ceased in 1985.

More Jackson China at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Homer Laughlin Pink Radiance Oval PlatterGoodwill find.
Description -- Cavalier Shape, eggshell weight. Designed by Don Schreckengost, pattern. 11 3/4" x 9 5/8". White body with pink in center, pink rim. Very good used condition with no cracks or crazing, but there is a small rim chip. Current 10/09 replacement value $29.99. Discontinued circa 1956. I have considered the damage in my asking price.
Historical Data -- Founded in 1871 by Mr. Homer Laughlin, The Homer Laughlin China Company has been owned and operated by the Aaron and Wells families since their acquisition in 1897. Homer Laughlin remains the largest domestic pottery employing over 1100 skilled workers in a 37 acre facility.

More Homer Laughlin at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Much more on all of these later.
Thanks for listening.... ☺☺☺☺

Pottery Update - United Airlines, Noritake, Furnivals

2009-09-29T06:38:00.000-07:00

It seems to be getting harder and harder for me to keep posting here on a timely basis. Trying to get my Atomic Mall listings in compliance with Google's new marketplace policies has taken a little setback. I was trying to get everything cleaned up by stripping my listings of anything that google considers non-compliant and at the same time adding an attribute to show the shipping weight of each item in an attached attribute. Google has two approved ways to enter weight either pounds or the abbreviation lbs. I choose pounds. A week later Atomic Mall updated their software to make attribute listing simpler. This is a great update, but unfortunately (for me) they choose lbs and the weight attribute from the 800 listings I had corrected all disappeared and I will have to do them over. Oh well live and learn. At least the corrections are a lot simpler because of this great update by the Mall. I bought one piece and sold one since my last post.

Noritake United Airlines Entree Plates First my lonely sale, a lot of three United Airlines Entree plates manufactured by Noritake.7 3/4" x 6 5/8" x 1 3/8", small abstract gray splash design. One side has a small lip Probably made to make handling easier for the flight attendants. This Pattern was made by Noritake exclusively for United Airlines. Excellent used condition with a very minor utensil scratches and bottom wear. Leftovers from the days when airlines actually tried to please their passengers by serving lavish full course meals on real china.

Historical Data -- The Noritake Company was established in the village of Noritake near Nagoya Japan by Baron Morimura in January 1904. Today it is one of the premier makers of fine China in the world.

More Airline China at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

More Noritake at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

All Noritake articles in this blog

Furnivals Blue Quail Serving BowlNow for my lonely purchase. Pickings were very slim at the Swap Meet on Sunday and I ended up with a Furnivals Blue Quail Oval Serving Bowl. It does have a small under rim chip, but the price I paid for this bowl that has a current replacement value of $90.00 was so low that I had to have it.

This has an all white body with a scalloped edge, blue floral border with a blue scene showing a pair of browsing quail in the center well. This is 8 5/8" x 6 1/2" x 1 3/4" bowl. Unfortunately a small under rim chip takes away from the otherwise excellent condition of this vintage piece. This is the smaller of the two sizes that this bowl was issued in. The larger is 9" and has a slightly higher value.

Furnivals at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Furnivals articles in this blog

Thanks for listening... ☺☺☺☺

Swap Meet Pottery - Franciscan, Metlox, Danbury Mint, Royal Worchester, Royal (USA), NASCO (USA)

2009-09-26T13:16:00.000-07:00

A great day at the swap meet today. This is the first time in a long time I have had to go back to pickup merchandise that I just couldn't carry the first time in my trusty vintage Kipling backpack. I just wish I didn't have so much cleanup to do on my listings to get into compliance with googles new Marketplace Policies, but I guess that's just the way it is. I won't get around to listing these for a while and there are some super items in this buy.

Franciscan Platinum Band (Encanto Shape) Well today I'm starting right off with the find of the day. A mixed lot of Franciscan Platinum Band Fine China from their Encanto (Coupe shape) Line. This pattern was also made in their Merced (Rim shape) Line. This lot was a steal. It had around $1000.00 in replacement value, but as soon as I unpacked it and turned my back one of my 4 legged stock room assistants broke the gravy boat so now it's only around $900.00. Still a bargain considering what I paid (Top Secret). I had a few choice words for the cat which I cannot repeat here because this is not an adult site. I haven't seen him since.

Platinum Band is the pattern name and it is just that. Ivory body with platinum trim and highlights, coupe shape. Issued from 1951 to 1981. Designed by Franciscan's design director Mary K. Grant.

This Lot now consists of 6 dinner plates, 8 cup sets, sugar bowl w/lid, creamer, 3 fruit bowls, 5 salad plates, 8 bread plates, an oval vegetable bowl and a 12" platter.

Historical Data -- Gladding, McBean and Company started in 1875. The company grew and acquired other potteries. They made sewer pipes, floor tiles, dinnerwares, and art pottery with a variety of trademarks. In 1934, dinnerware and art pottery were sold under the name Franciscan Ware. The company became Interpace Corporation and in 1979 was purchased by Josiah Wedgwood & Sons. The plant was closed in 1984 and all production was moved to England.

More Franciscan at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Metlox Sculptured Zinnia Next out of the box was a couple of pieces of Metlox Sculptured Zinnia. A round divided vegetable bowl and a 14 1/4" platter (This is the larger of the two platters in this pattern. Sculptured Zinnia was one on the patterns in the second group of traditional shapes issued by Metlox from their Poppytrail Division. In addition to the basic pattern, zinnia was also issued in three color variations Lavender Blue & Memories (both designed by Helen McIntosh) and Floralace (a citron yellow body with snow white flowers). Sculptured Zinnia was issued from 1964-1979.

A company brochure describes Sculptured Zinnia: "So bold and different, and understandably right in fashion, because flowers have always been used for beautiful table settings. The Zinnias are carved with minute attention to detail, and hand painted in the luxurious combination of yellow-gold, orange, greens, and browns, against a cream-white background."

I was particularly pleased to get these two pieces because I am a big fan of California Pottery and I have been sold out of Sculptured Zinnia for a long time.

Historical Data -- The beginning of Metlox Manufacturing Company dates back to 1927 in Manhattan Beach, Ca when Willis and T. C. Prouty became interested in producing the ceramic portion of neon signs.Metlox Manufacturing Company was incorporated in the state of California in 1933. Metlox Manufacturing Company's incorporation was terminated on January 4, 1988.

More Metlox at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Danbury Mint Sailing Ship Tankards (10 different) The first item I bought today was a box of ten different Danbury Mint Sailing Ship Tankards. Usually I steer clear of collectibles like these, but being an old sailor, I just couldn't resist the temptation.

So far I haven't found out much about these. From the bottom mark I know that there were 12 in the set so I am missing 2. Since I will offer them individually the missing items are no big deal. Also from the mark I know that the artist apparently was named Robert Devereaux and that the artwork appears to have been done on commission from Danbury Mint. I have not been able to find any information about him. Other than that I see a couple of the tankards offered on line but with no additional information.

The ten that I do have are: Bon Homme Richard, Cutty Sark, Sea Witch, Victory, Flying Cloud, Mayflower, Golden Hind, Santa Maria, Constitution and Half Moon.

Historical Data - The Danbury Mint is a world leader in the design and development of fine collectibles.

For over three decades, they have been serving the needs of collectors to acquire keepsakes of lasting meaning, beauty and importance. They take great pride and pleasure in presenting collectors and enthusiasts with a varied and ever-changing assortment of quality products.

*** This item was removed from my store as a gift to a friend. ***

Royal Worcester Cabbage Patch Kids Bowl Next, A Royal Worcester Cabbage Patch Kids Bowl. This is another item that I normally would have passed on, but I have a lot of memories of my wife making custom made clothes for these Cabbage Patch Dolls and selling them at our local swap meet when they were the "in" toy. I was surprised to see that this piece was mad by Royal Worcester. A company that I am very familiar with.

Historical Data -- Royal Worcester has been made by the Worcester Porcelain Company in Worcester, England from 1862 to present.

More Royal Worcester at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Royal China (USA) Bucks County Dinner Plates
I have sold Royal China Bucks County plates before and so I was more than happy to pick some up at a decent price. These are 10" diameter dinner plates and have a pastel yellow background with dark brown designs depicting early American farm life. Pennsylvania Dutch style flowers and dancers circle the rim.

Historical Data - Royal China operated in Ohio from 1934 to 1986. Royal was purchased by Jeanette Glass in 1969 but continued to operate with Royal marks.

More Royal China (USA) at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

NASCO (USA) Fascination PlatesThose of you that have followed my blog for a while should know that I am a sucker for almost any pottery that I have never seen before or even better never heard of either, These plates are marked NASCO and while I have seen and sold lots of NASCO pottery in the past it has always been Japanese made. As a matter of note, this pattern was also made in Japan with an all white body instead of the mustard color.

More NASCO at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

As usual I will add pics and info as I research and list.
Thanks for listening...☺☺☺☺

Pottery Sale - Fukagawa

2009-09-22T16:55:00.000-07:00

Not much to report today. I did have a sale and checked out Goodwill when I went to ship it, but nothing there caught my eye.

Fukagawa Maple Serving BowlDescription -- Pattern 905. 9 1/4" diameter. Red, rust & gold leaves on branches, gold trim. Overall excellent used condition except for a small stain on the side and trim wear. (It appears to be a rub of some kind). Estimated replacement value $39.99. I should point out that there were two different maple patterns. This one is 905 and has a coupe shape with three leaf colors on the branches. The other is 505 which is rim shaped and has all red maple leaves on black branches.

Historical Data -- In 1894 the modern Fukagawa company was founded in Arita by Chuji Fukagawa, with the Fukagawa trade mark of Mount Fuji and a stream, as its trade mark. The Fukagawa company has served as purveyor for the Japanese Imperial Household since 1910 and only produces white true high temperature porcelain.

My thanks to the buyer in Oakland and I hope she enjoys this fine example of Japanese dinnerware.

More Fukagawa at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

That's all for today folks! Thanks for listening.... ☺☺☺☺

Swap Meet Pottery - CAPSCO, Hoenig of California, Josefs Originals

2009-09-20T10:37:00.000-07:00

Quick trip to the swap meet because today is football day and that takes precedence over business in this house. The Raiders - Chiefs game is tied 3-3 at the half. I think I have time for my old guy nap before the Chargers - Ravens game starts. In the order of importance nap takes precedence over non-chargers games.

Well, my nap is over and so is the Charger Game a hard fought battle, but in the end the Chargers couldn't overcome the injuries suffered in last weeks Raiders Game and we lost. But, as they say: "There's always next week."

Anyway, back to business. I didn't find much at the swap meet, but I did pick up a few things just to do some research on them.

CAPSCO Washington D.C. Wall PlateDescription -- Rim shape. 10 3/4" diameter. Beautiful multicolored design on white body. Various Washington, D.C. landmarks on the sloping verge and the Capitol building in center. This is a great souvenir plate of the Capitol. Excellent used condition with no chips, cracks or crazing.

Historical Data -- Mr. Jacob Goozh immigrated from Europe to the U.S. in 1914. In coming years he started a photography business (The Empire Photo Studio), primarily serving tourists in the Washington, D.C. area. In 1931, the name was changed To The Capitol Souvenir Company (CAPSCO). The company contracted with many small pottery companies to produce his Washington D.C. Souvenirs and handled the production end of his post card company in house in the photo studio.

More CAPSCO at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Hoenig of California AshtrayWalking back to start my second walkthru (I always go through twice just to make sure I didn't miss a seller who came in since my first run), I saw an unusual ashtray that I had to check out. Turns out it was a Hoenig of California piece that was hand painted by Vee Jackson. I have never had any Hoenig items so I had to buy it.
Description -- California Pottery. 10 1/2" diameter, avacado green with stylized gold waves. Hand decorated by Vee Jackson. Good used condition with no cracks or crazing, but there are two small chips in the foot ring have no impact on stability or appearance. "Lou Hoenig G9 Calif USA" incised under glaze on bottom. Additional mark "Hand Decorated" "Vee Jackson" California USA" stamped in gold. Fine example of Vintage California Pottery.

Historical Data -- I have been unable to find any information on Hoenig of California. Vee Jackson was a respected California Artist who appears to have designed or decorated ware for a number of Southern California potteris in the mid century.

Hoenig of California at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Josefs Originals November Birthday Girl I don't really know why I bought this last item. I'm not really into collectible figurines, but the seller was a garage saler and although I am familiar with Josefs Originals I have never had one and was uncertain about value. I figured it was worth the buck she was asking. It is a November Birthday Girl and very nice, unfortunately it has a small chip on the back of the flower basket which I had missed. I don't know if I'll list it or not, but I do want to do a little more research.

I'll add pictures and info as time permits.

Thanks for listening....

Swap Meet Pottery -Bauer, Yakumo, Syracuse, Mason's

2009-09-19T13:26:00.000-07:00

Well, just to make a good day better, I really made what I consider to be some great finds at the swap meet this morning. My poor little "very vintage" backpack was really tired by the time we got home. The weather was also perfect (another plus). Here is a rundown on the loot as I found it. As usual pictures and listings will come later.

Bauer Seashell Serving or Snack BowlsMy first find was a lot of three Bauer Los Angeles Bowls. They are off-white with Gold ribbed highlights on the rim and tab handles. This gives them the appearance of sea shells. They are 8 3/8" Handle to handle x 8 1/2" wide x 3" deep. They seem to be too large for cereal or soup bowls so I am calling them serving bowls. I looked thorough literally hundreds of Bauer bowls online but could not find anything like these. They are clearly inscribed in a large triangle "BAUER" "CALIF" "USA" on the bottom. All are in excellent condition except for one bowl which has a small chip in the foot ring which I do not consider significant.

Historical Data -- Starting in Louisville, Kentucky, and then flourishing in Los Angeles, California, J. A. Bauer Pottery Company created simple, yet beautiful stoneware from the late 1880s to the early 1960s. With lines ranging from redware flowerpots to brilliantly colored dinnerware, Bauer Pottery was a staple in American homes for many decades.

Today, the work of J.A. Bauer has been reintroduced by a ceramics studio in Los Angeles, located just minutes from the original plant. The new Bauer line, Bauer 2000, is being produced using original pieces as models, with an emphasis on items originally manufactured by Bauer in the 1930s and 40s. To the best of my knowledge all of their ware is marked "2000".

More Bauer at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Syracuse SY178 Restaurant ware Chop PlatesNext up, in a box of plates I saw three Syracuse Cherry Blossom Chop Plates (replacements designates these SY178). I thought they were dinner plates until I got home and realized that I already have some of the dinner plates listed and they are only 10" diameter while these chops are 11 1/4". They have a white scalloped body with beautiful pink blossoms and vivid black branches. This is a very nice pattern in the world of restaurant ware.

Historical Data -- Syracuse China, located in Lyncourt, New York (a suburb of Syracuse), was founded in 1871 as Onondaga Pottery Company (O.P. Co.) in the town of Geddes next to Syracuse and is still producing to this day. Initially a producer of earthenware, in the late 19th century, O.P.Co., under President James Pass, developed a new china body and won the medal for translucent china at the World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago in 1893. In 1897 production turned to the vitreous china body. Its first colored china body, "Old Ivory," appeared in 1926. The company thrived with its hotel and railroad sales. The narrow-bodied "Econo-Rim" was tailored for the cramped table space of dining cars. Highly sought after collectible patterns sell regularly on eBay and at estate sales. The company was renowned for its fine china designs until 1970 when it limited its production to mostly restaurant dinnerware. They purchased the Mayer China Co and the Shenango China Co in 1984. In 1995, Libbey Inc. of Toledo, Ohio purchased the Syracuse China Company to complement its strong presence in the food service industry. My best information is that Libbey is closing the plant in 2009 and will manufacture off shore with the Syracuse trademark.

All Syracuse Articles in this blog

More Syracuse at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Mason's Ironstone CreamerFor the third time in a month I spotted an older piece of Masons Patented Ironstone. A little octagon shaped cream pitcher with a snake shaped handle. There is a piece snapped off of the handle bottom and a crack in the handle top which does not go all the way through. Very vivid blue/orange/red floral design all around. It is 3 3/4" high.

Historical Data -- Mason's Ironstone Chine was created in 1968 by the acquisition of G.L. Ashworth & Bros in the Broad Street Works in Hanley, Staffordshire area.

All Mason's Ironstone Articles in this blog

More Mason's Ironstone at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Yakumo Dragonware Tea Set

Finally the find of the day, An almost complete Yakumo Dragonware Tea Set. This is a wonderful work of art. It is just garish enough to be beautiful. I have the Teapot, sugar and creamer with lids. three saucers, four cups with lithophane Geisha (Empress) heads in the bottom and finally six dessert plates. All pieces have moriage slip and gold gild designs. More on this great find later.

Yakumo at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Thanks for listening... ☺☺☺☺

Happy Days Are Here Again

2009-09-19T06:43:00.000-07:00

It is truely a happy day. My Atomic Mall listings are back in the Google Shopping Data Base. My deepest appreciation goes out to Mike (the webmaster at Atomic Mall).

Poetry 101 - Expectations

2009-09-18T14:59:00.000-07:00

All of the current problems that I am having with my Atomic Mall Store because of the new google feed rules have been driving me nuts. Then I remembered this poem from years ago that I had written when I was having some issues over which I had no control and no choice but to sit and wait for others to take care of them. Same situation I'm in now. Reading it has calmed me down a little and I pass it along to anyone else who may be interested. Feel free to share it if you want.

EXPECTATIONS

Why do I feel so bad
Or maybe even sad.

When others do not do
The things I want them to.

I need to reconsider
Why I do feel so bitter.

I know I don't control
How others walk or stroll.

My life alone I need to heed
Let others march to their own creed.

So hard to need another
To help you like a mother.

We were all made to want
Someone to lean on even haunt.

So hard to love without demands
Not to touch with heated hands.

To retreat back into self
And fence back out the masses.

A danger there I do not want
It makes my blood molasses.

I guess there is no answer here
Life's always frought with fear.

The pain I feel may not be nice
But feeling not would hurt me twice.

The Old Guy
14 Mar 2001

Thanks for listening.... ☺☺☺☺

Disaster Strikes Again

2009-09-16T09:39:00.000-07:00

Once again as soon as On line sales start to climb for the fall holiday season disaster has reached out an swept all the little people under the carpet. I don't want to sound like a conspiracy theory nut, but it is very suspicious how some new rule or the other to target those of us who sell on the alternative sites to the big guy always shows up around this time of the year. This time it is a new rule that takes away the capability to control our search engine feeds to the Google Product search and force the site web masters to submit the site as one entity. If this transition is successful things may go back to normal in a week or so, but the site I was on last year really never recovered. I have a lot of faith in the folks at Atomic Mall so I am going to wait and see. Right now I basically am disconnected from Google Shopping and the few listings I can find in the basic google search are buried. I will continue trying to list and refine my store in order to make it more buyer friendly, but I am pretty unhappy about all of this right now.

A little later. The situation is still unchanged and I am still ticked off, but into every storm a ray of sun must shine or something like that. Disconnected from the search engines or not I made a sale. An old customer must have realized I needed cheering up and purchased a Metlox Colorstax Fruit/Berry Bowl.
Don't be discouraged, we have more. Metlox Colorstax at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

More Later..... Thanks for listening ☺☺☺☺

Pottery Buy & Sell Salem Shakers, English Bone Dishes

2009-09-13T15:01:00.000-07:00

Today was a mixed bag on the pottery front. I went to the swap meet and made a single buy. To say that it was quiet would be a gross understatement. The other side of that coin is that I did make a small but welcome sale.

Salem Biscayne Salt & Pepper Shakers
First the sale, a few months ago I bought a small mixed lot of Salem Biscayne and I think this is the first sale from it. Description -- Ovenproof, white body, blue tops. Blue/Beige leaves, pink flowers. Salt 1 3/4" diameter x 3 1/4" tall. Pepper 1 1/2" diameter x 2 7/8" tall. Excellent used condition with light use wear and one missing stopper. Issued from the late 1950's through the early 1960's. Current (09/09) replacement value $19.99.

Historical Data -- Salem was founded in 1899 in Salem, Ohio. It was purchased in 1918 by the Sebring family. Salem ceased manufacturing in 1967. Manufacturing was outsourced overseas for several years.
More Salem Biscayne at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Set of Eight Bone Dishes
Ordinarily I will not buy dinnerware without manufacturers marks, unless I recognize the pattern. My philosophy is that if I can't identify a piece than I probably won't find an interested buyer. Having said all that I did buy a set of eight bone dishes today that I have no real firm idea who or even where they were made. There are a couple of reasons why I made this exception to my own rules. First I have a weakness for bone dishes and second, I really owed the seller a favor for selling me the Minton Rose I mentioned last week. They are all in great condition except for heavy trim wear and have beautiful vermillion (I think) roses and green and gray leaves on them.
Bone Dishes at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Enough for now. Thanks for listening...☺☺☺☺

Swap Meet Pottery - Seyei, Heron Cross

2009-09-12T13:44:00.000-07:00

A very worthwhile Saturday morning trip to the Swap Meet even though I only made two purchases. Some days are just luckier than others.

Heron Cross PlateOnce again I came across a pottery I had never heard of before. A beautiful art wall plate produced by Heron Cross Pottery. A reproduction of a painting of Salisbury Cathedral by John Constable (1776-1837). Not only had I never heard of this pottery, but they have been around since 1876 and are still making fine quality ware.

Heron cross was established in 1876 by the Hines Brothers in Fenton, Stoke in the Staffordshire district in England. They make excellent quality porcelain and Ivory ware. The pottery was acquired by Grimwades in 1907 and operated continuously until WWII when the factory was used by the government to store bully beef (whatever that is) and land mines. After the war operations resumed and the company went through several changes of ownership and is still going strong. More information on the company website:
History of Heron Cross Pottery

Heron Cross John Constable Plate at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Seyei Bella MariaAlmost as soon as I arrived at the Swap Meet I spotted a very dirty pair of Seyei Bella Maria Serving Bowls under a pile of junk plates. To my surprise when I dug them out they were in excellent condition with no visible damage other than the dirt. The seller was not there, so I told her helper that I would take them and ask him to set them in the truck until I returned. When I came back 10 minutes later I was really amazed. My two bowls had grown to a large lot of Bella Maria. The price was excellent and I bought them on the spot.

Seyei is somewhat of a mystery to me. I believe it was established prior to WWII as the Seyei Toki Co. Limited in Nagoya, Japan. After the war they exported goods to the U.S. until 1970. (They were one of the many contractors for the Sears Harmony House line.) It is thought that some patterns, including Bella Maria were only sold in Armed Forces exchanges in the Far East and possibly Europe and were never actually exported to the U.S. I have seen a number of figural Sake bottles marked Seyei so their production was not limited to dinnerware.

The best source I have seen is this: Ebay Guide - Seyei Bella Maria

Since I know of no pieces marked Occupied Japan, I think it is safe to assume (dangerous practice) that Bella Maria was issued after 1951. It was discontinued around 1959. Pattern #2129. White body with gray rims, silver leaves on the gray with roses on the white centers of the flat ware. Here's the list:

Creamer
Sugar Bowl Lid only
5 Salad Plates
2 Soup Bowls
2 14" Oval Platters
2 Oval Serving Bowls
Round Covered Serving Bowl
2 Dinner Plates

More Seyei at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Pictures and Listing soon.
Thanks for listening... ☺☺☺☺

Trading Cards Are Back Again

2009-09-11T10:04:00.000-07:00

Few people realize it, but at one time I was a significant non sports card dealer both off and on line. I am running out of storage room for pottery so I am going to try and move some of the large inventory of cards that I still have packed away. This four year old posting on this blog will give you some background.
"Pick a Card, Any Card"
Much more on this subject later.

Here's where they are going to be:
Trading Cards at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Thanks for listening... ☺☺☺☺

Swap Meet Pottery - Noritake

2009-09-09T19:15:00.000-07:00

I decided to give the Wednesday Swap Meet another try today. As usual it lived up to my expectations. Not much there to tickle my fancy, but I did find a couple of nice pieces.

Noritake Armand Serving Bowl A large Noritake Armand Round Vegetable Bowl out on the field. Nothing unusual there, but it was in perfect condition and the price was certainly right.

Historical Data -- The Noritake Company was established in the village of Noritake near Nagoya Japan by Baron Morimura in January 1904. Today it is one of the premier makers of fine China in the world. Listed:

Noritake Armand Serving Bowl at Quality Junk

Noritake Gilded Age PlatesAs I was leaving I stopped at one of the "Garage Stores" that I buy from occasionally and picked up a 4 piece lot of Noritake Gilded Age plates, one each dinner,salad,bread and saucer. I had been looking at these for some time and I bought them because Gilded Age is a simple but beautiful design and I wanted to add them to my store.

Another note of interest about this pattern. It was made in the Philippines for Noritake. I usually steer clear of Philippine pottery for two reasons. First, most of what is currently on the market is from small "cottage" industry companies and is of a poor quality. Second, I have to limit the range of my inventory and purchases and so I simply have to pass by a lot of good pieces from countries that are relatively new to the pottery business. This includes the Philippines, Portugal and Italy and many others. I just don't have the financial capability of expanding into those areas at this time.

Noritake Gilded Age at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

More Noritake at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Noritake articles in this blog.

Enough for now. Thanks for listening.... ☺☺☺☺

Otagiri Tea Set - Another Great Sale

2009-09-08T14:15:00.000-07:00

OTAGIRI TEA SETSold another piece today while taking my "old guy" nap. (I've got to nap more often). This time it was a really nice Otagiri Tea Set. I almost (remember I said almost) hate to sell it.

Description -- Gray body with hand inscribed and handpainted bird, flower and fish designs. Teapot - opening diameter 3 5/8", foot ring diameter 4 1/8", height 5" (top of finial). Cups - 2 1/2" diameter x 2 1/2" tall. Rattan handle in perfect condition. The beautiful hand work makes this a prime example of Japanese craftsmanship. Excellent condition with no chips, cracks or crazing. Not all pieces have intact OMC Gold paper labels.

Historical Data -- Otagiri Mercantile Company, more commonly called OMC, was established in San Francisco in 1947 . Most products by Otagiri were manufactured in Japan. They became one of the most respected importers of giftware and in 1994, Otagiri was sold to the Enesco Corporation.

My thanks to the buyer in Connecticut who purchased it. I hope she will enjoy it as much as I have.

More Otagiri at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

I'm off to buy more bubble wrap. Thanks for listening....☺☺☺☺

Pottery Sales - Harmony House & Williams Sonoma

2009-09-07T12:38:00.000-07:00

A couple of more sales over the labor day weekend. I don't know why but in the five years I have been selling on line, sales have always nosedived in July & August and literally exploded upward in September. My theory has always been that summertime combined with daylight savings creates a situation where folks have a lot of daylight to play outside in after work and are not willing to sit in front of a computer surfing the net. When the weather is dreary or even bad, they are more inclined to stay indoors and play on their computers. Whatever the reason it seems to happen this way year after year, so I spend my summer sales slump trying to make all of my listings as attractive as possible for the rest of the year.

HARMONY HOUSE HONEY HEN

Sold a lot of four Harmony House Honey Hen Dinner Plates that were made for Sears by Taylor, Smith & Taylor. They are a bit unusual in that they have Taylor, Smith & Taylor and Harmony House backstamps. Usually pottery made for Harmony House does not have a manufacturers mark. I don't know when Honey Hen was first issued, but it was discontinued in 1963.

Historical Data -- In 1940, Sears introduced the Harmony House brand as an interior-decorating scheme that used four basic colors that could be coordinated with each other. (The year before, Sears catalogs featured "Charm House," a similar program.) Customers were encouraged to use a color wheel that was supplied in the catalog for coordinating colors. Eventually the color palette was expanded to 18 colors. The Harmony House style and color system was not merely limited to carpets and paints, either; the entire house could be furnished according to the colors. The Harmony House line of dinnerware was made for Sears & Roebuck by a number of companies including Hall China, Homer Laughlin, Salem China, Universal and Fine China of Japan among others. The Harmony House Line was discontinued in 1968.

More Harmony House at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

WILLIAMS SONOMA BOWL SET
My other sale was a boxed set of six Williams Sonoma cheese dipping bowls. I actually ended up selling these for almost the price of shipping them. I had made a mistake on the shipping cost and the difference ate up the profit. While these are beautiful bowls for your home party I really had no interest in them so I am glad to find them a good home.

Historical Data -- Founded in 1956, Williams-Sonoma has become a premier specialty retailer of home furnishings in the USA. They are well known and respected. they market in retail stores, by catalog and on the internet.

Enough for now. Thanks for listening....☺☺☺☺

Swap Meet Pottery - Minton, Bennington, Occupied Japan

2009-09-06T12:24:00.000-07:00

I really haven't gone three days without having anything to say here. I have updated most of the postings from the last week with pictures and links to my store.

Today however I did finally manage to get back to the swap meet and I was ever so glad that I did. I found a few interesting thing and than just before I left I stumbled across a genuine find. Here's a quick list to be clarified with details later.

Occupied Japan MugsA pair of Occupied Japan Beer Mugs with the usual Medieval drinking scenes handpainted on the side of low quality post WWII Japanese Pottery.

Historial Data -- Occupied Japan Marks were used after WWII until the end of the ocupation April 18,1952. While all Japanese exports were supposed to be marked in this fashion, it is commonly believed that many were simply marked "Japan" or "Made in Japan". Because there was a general feeling of resentment against the occupation many craftsman and manufacturers would not use the occupation mark. The effect of this has resulted in a scarcity of wares with the occupation mark which has created a very active market for them among collectors.
More Occupied Japan at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Franciscan Bouquet Berry BowlsThree Franciscan Bouquet Berry Bowls from their Romantics Line. Bouquet is a scalloped shape with a sculptured bouquet that flows across the piece. According to Franciscan advertising at the time the Romantics are "beautiful by candlelight or daylight, letting you put flowers on the table every day. The other patterns were Cafe Royal (an earthtoned version of Desert Rose) and Rosette (same shape as Bouquet but with embossed flowers on the rim rather than on the plate).
More Franciscan at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Bennington Potters Agate Gravy BoatA Bennington Potters Pink Agate Gravy Boat with attached underplate.

Historical Data -- Bennington Potters was founded in 1948 when David Gill began making ceramics as part of an artists' cooperative. Gill eventually opened Bennington Potters in a small barn in downtown Bennington. In 1964 Bennington Potters expanded into a former home and business supply building located on County Street, where it is still operating today. The history of Bennington Potters is a tale of an early American local pottery evolved onto an internationally respected company.
Bennington Potters History

This mark is worthy of note and unusual, because it is an example of the complete Bennington Potters mark designed by Gill and represents a creative hand and arm with an inspirational spark on the arm. Most of their ware uses only an asterik representing the inspirational spark. They explain it better than I can.
The Story of the Bennington Potters Stamp

Bennington Potters at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Minton Rose DinnerwareThe big find - A lot of Minton Rose dinnerware. Most of which is from the older style with the smooth edge and Globe backstamp.

(3) Old style saucers
(3) New style saucers
(8) Salad Plates
(2) Luncheon Plates
(7) Dinner Plates

As is my policy I won't share my cost, but current replacement on the Minton is about $1000.00 total. This is a complicated lot because there are several different U.S. Jobber marks to research. These may be of interest to the advanced collector (They certainly are to me).
More Minton at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Enough for now. Thanks for listening... ☺☺☺☺

Pottery Sales Sango & Princess House

2009-09-03T18:18:00.000-07:00

Well at least one problem is solved. When I took the car back to the "certified repair facility" they said something was blocking the air flow distribution. They cleaned it and I went right to the "certified test facility" and it passed the test. I immediately went and registered the car because as I was leaving the "certified test facility" the "uncertified" engine light came back on. At least it worked long enough to pass the test. I'll take it back to the "certified repair facility" tomorrow and see what they have to say.

Also a couple of small, but encouraging sales to report. It looks like the fall sales are picking up a little.

Princess House Cereal Bowl
Sold a Princess House Heritage Blossom Cereal Bowl. (We have more).
Historical Data -- Princess House was founded in 1963 by Charlie Collis. By using Home Party Hostess's and a network of Lifestyle Consultants, they provide quality everday and special occasion home products to consumers.
More Princess House at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Sango Maui Dinner PlateSold a Sango Maui Dinner Plate. Description -- Larry Laslo Collection, Pattern 7001. Orange, gray & black tropical floral design on white ovoid body. 11 1/2" x 10 1/4" plate. Excellent used condition with no damage. Made in Korea. First issued in 1986 and discontinued in 1992. Estimated (06/09) replacement value $22.99.

Historical Data -- Sango Ceramics Indonesia is the leading ceramics tableware distributer based in Indonesia. They have fine china, porcelain, and stoneware for home as well as for the hospitality industry manufactured in a number of countries. Their products are exported and sold everywhere. More Sango at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Larry Lasko -- Larry Laslo began his long career as an advertising art director and illustrator, and his interiors still bear the stamp of a freewheeling imagination. In addition to using plush materials and saturating them with rich color, Laslo is known for tapping the glamour of another age. There’s hardly a sphere of design that he hasn’t put his fevered mind to: china for Royal Limoges and Mikasa, lighting, furniture, and most recently a line of fabrics for Robert Allen. We asked him what makes his design sense tick. —Paul O’Donnell (Excerpt from An interview on Glam.com):
Larry Lasko Interview

Thanks for listening.... ☺☺☺☺

Problems, Problems

2009-09-03T06:26:00.000-07:00

Well I've missed a couple of days again and I really didn't want to but....

Our car (a venerable 1999 Hundyai) Has to be smog tested this year and for the first time since we bought it (new) it didn't pass. I have been going back and forth to the "certified repair facility" for several days trying to make right whatever is wrong. First was a major overhaul (no question that we needed this) trying to get the check engine light to stay off. That went well and the car certainly ran a lot better, but unfortunately the light came back on while we were sitting at a long light that night. Next day they found a vapor tank that was falling apart and replaced it. The light came back on while the car was idling in our driveway waiting for me to open the garage door. I'll take it back this morning, but we are just about at our funding limit, so we may have to register it as inoperative for another month while we get more cash together. The car is not essential to me, but my wife can't really get back and forth to her work without it. I'll let you know how this plays out.

Yesterday was my 71st birthday and this also impacted on my blogging time. Hopefully I can get back to daily updates when all of this is behind us.

Atomic Mall has now added sub sub categories to the Mall wide search engine. I will have a lot more to say about this later. While this may be helpful to some types of dealers, it will simply confuse an already confusing issue for me. The best way to search my store or the mall is to go there and enter a search term in the search window. It would have been much better to have added the ability to subdivide categories to the stores (which I was expecting) rather than to the entire mall. Oh well Atomic Mall is still the best site around by leaps and bound, so I'm there for the duration.

Thanks for listening....☺☺☺☺

Goodwill Pottery - Noritake & Carrigaline

2009-08-31T12:46:00.000-07:00

Lots of things to report today. In addition to the busy weekend, I made a sale last night - San Diego Zoo Gorilla Plate. Mailed it out this morning and of course while I was there, I had to stop at the Goodwill and check out the new merchandise.

Noritake Colony Teapot

I picked up a really nice Noritake Colony Teapot.

Listed Noritake Colony Teapot at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Carragaline Cup SetAlso, a demi mug and saucer from the Carrigaline Pottery in Ireland in their Shamrock pattern. I had never heard of them before and that alone sold me on buying it to do the research. Listed:
Carrigaline Shamrock Cup Set at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

I said yesterday that I would let you know about the swap meet finds I had yesterday so here it is.

Blue Mountain BakersFirst I picked up a Loaf Baker and a large Oval Baker from Blue Mountain Potteries in Canada. This was another buy heavily influenced by the fact that I had never heard of these guys either. So far I have discovered that Blue Mountain Potteries was one of the largest and most prolific in Canada. They were in business between 1947 and 2004. Listed:
Blue Mountain Oval Baker at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall
Blue Mountain Loaf Baker at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Noritake Zembla Cream Soup SetMy other find was a bit more common and I was a bit disappointed to find it had a much lower replacement value than I had thought it would. It was a very nice set of six Noritake Zembla Cream Soup bowls with the under plates in perfect condition. Again I'll elaborate after I list and find out a little more.
Listed: Noritake Zembla Cream Soup Set at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

All Noritake articles in this blog.
Well that's enough for now. Thanks for listening.... ☺☺☺☺

A Busy Weekend & A Power Failure

2009-08-30T15:14:00.000-07:00

Well I think this is the first time since I reopened this blog a couple of months ago that I missed two days in a row. There was just to much going on for me to get on the computer.

The main deal was the Little League World Series, which just wrapped up with our home town boys from Chula Vista coming out on top of a super fine team from Chinese Taiwan. In fact, I'm still listening to the local news specials trying to out brag each other. I'm not a big baseball fan, but these games were great. I wish our Padres could do half as well, but than again, that's a whole different ball game.

I am a big football fan and of course I had to watch the Chargers - Falcons game. Unfortunately we lost at the last minute, but it was a great game and after all it is the preseason. Anyway that's been my weekend.

I thought I would be able to catch up this morning, but About 11 O'clock last night we lost power and didn't get it back until just before the Baseball game. As luck would have it the problem was pretty much restricted to our street and I still have no idea what the problem was.

I did get to the Swap Meet this morning, and bought a couple of nice pieces, but that's a story for tomorrow.

Thanks for listening.... ☺☺☺☺

Hot Pottery - Alaskan Clay Vase - ENCO Mini Mug

2009-08-27T14:56:00.000-07:00

I sure wish we had that breezy cool weather back that was here a day or so ago. It is definitely hot enough to fry eggs on the sidewalk today and it looks like it's going to stay that way over the weekend. It's so hot that my cats are all sleeping on top of our chest freezer where it's always cold.

I decided to take pictures and list a few things today because it is just too hot to do much of anything else. I found a few more items in boxes from our brick & mortar days and decided it was time to let the rest of the world see them.

Enco Souvenir Mini Mug I am a lot more interested in odds and ends than I used to be and when I came across this miniature souvenir mug from Turkey Run State Park it aroused my curiosity for a number of reasons. I can remember similar mementos from various vacations lining the shelves of my dad's gun cabinet. Also I had never heard of the company that apparently were the distributors of these items to many tourist attractions and roadside stands throughout the country in the mid 1900's. My research didn't turn up much about ENCO except that they were headquartered in New York and that they imported their merchandise from all around the world and some was even made here in the good old U.S. of A. I did find out a lot about Turkey Run State Park in Indiana and for those who may be interested here's a great Wikipedia Link:

Turkey Run State Park, Indiana

I did finally list it:

ENCO Mini Mug at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Alaskan Vase signed Hagmann
The next piece is not from my store days. I found it at Goodwill a couple of years ago and my wife liked it so well it went straight up on the fireplace mantel and I never listed it. Unfortunately we have run out of room on the mantel and have other items we want to display so I decided it was time to put it in the store. It is an artist signed Alaskan vase made from Cook Inlet Clay. I have not found any mention of this artist anywhere, but rest assured that this is no 6" vase made to sell in a souvenir shop. It is over 18" tall and very narrow. I have seen vases of this same clay that are very small (6") being offered on line for around $50.00. I think my asking price is very reasonable for this fantastic piece. Here it is:

Alaskan Vase signed Hagmann at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Enough for today. Thanks for listening....☺☺☺☺

Swap Meet Pottery - Otagiri, Lenox

2009-08-26T14:50:00.000-07:00

Well another Wednesday Swap Meet and with the typical results. Not a thing on the field that I could even get interested in. Fortunately this swap meet has an area under the main drive-in movie screen with about 50 little garages which the dealers rent on a monthly basis. It's pretty convenient actually, they just keep there merchandise there and open the door on swap meet days.In fact when this Swap Meet was in its heyday 20 years ago I was renting five of those garages and 2 spaces on the field. Things are a lot quieter there now and the only thing that has gone up are the rents.

Anyway I usually pass these stores by as the sellers are usually much more expensive than those in the field spaces. Today I was getting a little desperate so I made a quick trip through them. I found two items that I decided to buy even though both were priced above my normal markup.

Lenox Rose VaseThe first was a little 6" Lenox rose vase. It was in great condition and the price wasn't too bad. I know that Lenox (like everyone else in the U.S.A.) has started manufacturing offshore so I buy USA made just for sentimental purposes. I was surprised when I got home and tried to find it on line. I looked at over 400 Lenox vases and saw nothing that even resembled the shape much less the design. I don't think it's very old so I am wondering if it's just too new to have found it's way into the secondary market yet. Here's what I have in the store:

Lenox at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Historical Data -- Lenox is the name of a porcelain maker. Walter Scott Lenox and Jonathan Coxon, Sr., founded the Ceramic Art Company in Trenton, New Jersey, in 1889. In 1906, Lenox left and started his own company called Lenox. The company makes a porcelain that is similar to Irish Belleek. Their superior dinnerware has made the company famous. Lenox was bought by Department 56 in 2005. If you want a complete picture of Lenox history try this:

Lenox Company History

Otagiri Hen & Rooster BookendsThe next item I was more familiar with and willing to pay more for. It was a pair of Otagiri Rooster & Hen Bookends (circa late 70's - early 80's). Otagiri did a wide variety of these over the years and I find them to be quality art. I have a pair of Pheasants in the store right now and they are going to sit on my fireplace mantel until they are sold. I don't see anyone offering the Rooster & Hen set right now. Here's my current inventory:

Otagiri at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall.

Historical Data -- Otagiri Manufacturing Company, more commonly called OMC, was based out of San Francisco. Products by Otagiri were manufactured in Japan. In the mid-1990s, Otagiri was sold to Enesco Corporation.

Thanks for listening.... ☺☺☺☺

Painting the Bridge - Keeping Up With All This Pottery

2009-08-25T19:14:00.000-07:00

You are probably wondering just what the heck does this bridge have to do with my pottery collection/business. Here's the deal. I have thousands of pieces of pottery and over 2000 listings on Atomic Mall. This is an arena where prices are constantly changing and new information is always surfacing. I found it to be totally confusing and subject to making many mistakes to try and keep up with all of this on a piecemeal basis. Than one day I saw a documentary about bridge painters. It seems that all large bridges are maintained by starting at one end and working straight through to the other. By the time they are finished it is time to start over again. It made a lot of sense and it occurred to me that this was a very logical method that could easily be applied to updating my pottery.

I started by going through item by item, alphabetically, updating prices, correcting or adding to descriptions where appropriate and checking photos that needed to be improved on. I finished my first run through in three months and am just starting through again. Just to make things interesting I sorted by value this time, starting with the highest and working through to the lowest. This seems to be a great system and every time I get frustrated I just remind myself that I am painting the bridge and that it isn't going anywhere. It calms me down and lets me walk away from the computer and relax once in a while. Knowing that the job will never be done keeps me from trying to complete it before I go to bed each night.

In a nutshell it allows me to mix business with pleasure and not feel guilty about it. Don't ask me why I wrote this post. Just because I felt like it. LOL

Thanks for listening.... ☺☺☺☺

Goodwill Find - Brock Chanticleer Pottery

2009-08-24T17:56:00.000-07:00

Since I had to ship the Rose China today, I had to stop at Goodwill and check things out. They had quit a bit of pottery, but only one piece jumped right out at me and said "take me home". It is a beautiful 11" Brock of California Chanticleer dinner plate. This is the first time I have seen one without any damage at all and I had to have it.

Brock of California was founded in 1947 by Bert Brock. He was better known for his abstract art than for his dinnerware, but the company designed a limited number of dinnerware patterns that are highly sought after today. The company closed around 1980.I have seen references that lead me to believe that Brock of California was actually a line designed by Brock and manufactured by the Southern California Pottery Company (also owned by Brock).

Here's my Brock of California Chanticleer

For the most part I have spent most of the day listing the Sheffield I bought over the weekend. That was a lot of photos to take and edit and than post so I didn't get much else done.

I should mention that one reason listing is a time consumer for me is that I use Photobucket and unlike most people I Title, Describe and Tag every primary photo for every listing. It's double the work but I'm still trying to be in the information business and not just sell things because they are pretty.

I'm trying to watch Monday Nite football and type at the same time. Not a great idea so I'm gonna quit for now.

Thanks for listening .... ☺☺☺☺

More Swap Meet Pottery - Cunningham & Picket (Homer Laughlin) Acacia Dinnerware

2009-08-23T12:40:00.000-07:00

Sunday morning and another trip to the swap meet. I spotted some china on a table in the second row that I was fairly certain was Homer Laughlin Eggshell Nautilus because the shape of the sugar bowl was unmistakable. When I picked up a creamer to verify it, my suspicions were confirmed. It had a very clear Eggshell Nautilus Mark with a 1942 date stamp. While I was checking the other pieces for damage (there wasn't any except for light wear), I found I had really hit the jackpot. Almost all of the flatware was double marked with a Cunningham and Pickett mark next to the Homer Laughlin.

Not all Homer Laughlin China bears the Homer Laughlin backstamp. Having made many lines for other companies and department stores, some of the Homer Laughlin China out there is literally marked for other companies. Cunningham & Pickett (Alliance, Ohio) is one on the dozens of companies in this category. My impression is that they were a large Jobber, buying from the manufacturer and reselling to retail stores in their sales area.

Not much problem finding out that the pattern was Acacia since it was clearly part of the Cunningham & Pickett mark (a common practice for this company). It is a striking orange and yellow floral design with geometric stripe. Markedly different from the pastel floral designs so common on eggshell designs of that period. Here's a list of what I scored for a very low price: (Update 08/28/09) Listed

1 Sugar Bowl w/lid
1 Creamer
3 Dessert Plates
5 Rimmed Soup Bowls

Here's a link to the Cunningham & Pickett that I have:

Cunningham & Pickett at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall
Thanks for listening... ☺☺☺☺

Swap Meet Pottery - Sheffield (USA), Mason's Ironstone

2009-08-22T16:26:00.000-07:00

Another Swap Meet Saturday for me. Not much there today, but I did find two things I felt were worth investing in.
A partial set of Sheffield (USA) Granada (Green) dinnerware and an absolutely wonderful Mason's Ironstone Bowl.

First the Sheffield Grenada (Green), this is a very common pattern and normally I would not have been interested except that there were many serving pieces and the price was definitely right.

Homer Laughlin's Granada Shape was designed by Vincent Bloomfield in 1967. Grenada is easily recognized by the half circles around the edge. Grenada glazes were most often in colors that matched the popular yellow and green kitchens of the time. Granada was used extensively on patterns that were sold to distributors and jobbers and a variety of backmarks will be found including the Sheffield Mark seen here. Like this one, many patterns were one solid color with no other design except the embossing. Sheffield was a trademark of J & H International Company. Sheffield products were manufactured by a number of companies, both domestic and international and were almost exclusively used as supermarket premiums.

Here's the list of what there was:

5 cup & saucer sets

3 saucers

1 Oval Platter 13 7/8"

1 Sugar Bowl w/lid

1 Creamer

7 Dinner plates 10"

7 Bread Plates 6 1/4"

1 Salt & Pepper Set

1 Round Covered Vegetable Bowl 7"

1 Round Serving Bowl 9"

9 Fruit/Berry Bowls 6"

Update (08/24/09) All of the above have been listed.

Here's what I have in the store:

Sheffield at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Last but certainly not least is a fantastic find for me on which I still have a great deal of research to do. It is a large Mason's Ironstone Bowl that was decorated in purple iris by Dame Elizabeth Blackadder and commissioned by the Royal Academy of Arts in a Limited Edition of 750. I believe these were probably sold to raise funds in the Royal Academy Gift Shop, but as I say I need to study it for a while.

(Update 08/26/09)
Royal Acadamy of the Arts Biography: Dame Elizabeth Blackadder

Staffordshire Info: Masons Ironstone China

(Update 09/07/09) Listed:

Mason's Blackadder Bowl at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

I was very glad that I had made the trip.

Thanks for listening... ☺☺☺☺

Noritake Rose China - an August Sale

2009-08-21T15:43:00.000-07:00

After taking my afternoon "old guy" nap, I discovered that I had made a sale. Thus proving the old theory that some people make more money sleeping than while they are awake. ☺☺☺

A gentleman in Nevada ordered some Rose China Plates to replace some damaged plates that originally were given to him by his mother. Replacements designates this as RO29. These plates actually have a somewhat fascinating history. Immediately after the second WW, in 1946, the word Noritake was temporary dropped from the marks and the RC mark (originally used as "Royal Crockery" on ware being exported by Noritake from Japan to India and Singapore in the 1920's) was reappearing as "Rose China" together with a picture of a rose and the words Made in Japan. Since the quality immediately after the war was not up to the pre-war standard, Noritake preferred to save the valuable Noritake brand name until later. The occupied Japan mark was used from 1945 through 1952. Many patterns were continued after the Occupation and were marked Noritake.

Post WWII Rose china was actually of a poorer quality than the usual standards expected of Noritake and because of this much of this china has fallen by the wayside because of breakage and hard use. These plates were an exception, they have no physical damage, but the original gold trim has been noticeably worn no doubt from years of loving use.

It is my pleasure to help this gentleman find a good home for these plates and I thank him for that.

All Noritake articles in this blog.

Thanks for listening.... ☺☺☺☺

Health 101 - the Doctor is in!!

2009-08-21T13:28:00.000-07:00

Today is one of those days I'm not very fond of. My monthly trip to the doctors that I somehow only find time for once a year. Actually I wouldn't go that often if I didn't have to get her to renew my blood pressure medication prescriptions.

Actually it started off well. I weighed in at 195 lbs. (I haven't been under 215 since I retired from the Navy in 1988). Then we found out the scale was off. I actually was a robust (spell that fat) 220 lbs. The next phase was the blood pressure. I felt optimistic at 145 over something, until she pointed out that last year I was 130 over something. Then came the dreaded bloodletting ceremony. This time I was pleasantly surprised. There is a new medical assistant and she was right on target with the needle. One puncture and SHAZAAM, three full tubes of blood. Finally I got my 3 minutes with the doctor she rearranged a few of my meds and told me to come back in 30 days. (I'll have to check my schedule and see if I'm available than). I took my wheelbarrow load of prescriptions and dropped them off at the pharmacy to pick up tomorrow. (I know I should have bought stock in some of these drug companies. Between my wife and I we must be paying the bonus's of at least three vice-presidents and a cleaning lady.) Oh well enough complaining for now.

Thanks for listening.... ☺☺☺☺

Franciscan Starburst Tile

2009-08-20T18:44:00.000-07:00

I was surfing pottery blogs and came across this post about Franciscan Starburst wall tiles. I was very impressed and decided to post this link.

Atomic Addiction: Today's Holy Grail...

Hope you enjoyed it, I certainly did..... ☺☺☺☺

A Rare Cold Day in Southern California

2009-08-20T10:24:00.000-07:00

We have had a spell of hot, but not uncomfortable, weather here for weeks so when I got up this morning and the curtains were blowing cool air into the house, I was pleasantly surprised. Right now nothing seems to be going on in the wonderful world of online sales and it can get a little boring just tweaking my listings to make sure they are ready for the rush, when and if it ever comes. If I'm going to be bored I prefer cool weather so I feel pretty good about today.

I am slowly but surely moving the last 100 items that I have on Blujay into my Atomic Mall Store. It's a little sad because I had very high hopes for Blujay when they first started up. I'm sure there are a number of reasons for the downhill slide that has been going on there for some time, but basically I think the owner just took on more than one man can be expected to handle. I am really hoping (make that praying) that Atomic Mall doesn't suffer the same fate. The big difference is that blujay was totally free and the Atomic Mall has at least some minimal fees and other optional charges that can turn a profit over time. No one can be expected to maintain a project that is costing them money.

I have managed to transfer another dozen items from Blujay to Atomic Mall in the last two days and will probably do a few more before the day is over. The only significant piece I moved was a Studio Pottery Tray that I have had a long time and never really found out anything about it, but I find it to be a beautiful piece and so I keep trying to find it a home.

Studio Pottery Tray at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Thanks for listening.... ☺☺☺☺

Books, Books Everywhere - Not a Book to Spare

2009-08-19T05:50:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a cleaning day for me. I use a lot of reference books in my search for knowledge on the pottery I find at the Swap Meet and thrift stores. Up until yesterday I just kept them in piles around my computer station in the living room. Unfortunately one of my cats had turned over a water bottle that someone (forever to be unnamed) had set on top of a stack of books and it spilled. Luckily it was almost empty and little damage was done, but it was a wake up call for me and I immediately started moving the books to a safer location in my bedroom.

Now this may sound simple, but when you realize that every horizontal surface in this house is covered with either my merchandise or my wife's craft supplies it becomes a lot more complicated. Every item I have is coded in the listing to tell me where to find it, so for every item I relocated to make room for the books the location in the listing had to be changed. This was a time consuming process and if not done carefully could cause some items to disappear forever. The bottom line is that it took all day to move the books, so I did not get much else done.

I guess what I am really trying to point out here is the importance that these books play in my life. While they are expensive (average price $30.00 each), the payback can be enormous when you find that first item that turns out to be "Quality Junk". They also allow me to give my customers and the readers of this blog as much background information as possible about my pottery items. I see too many listings on line that simply say " California plate $5.00" and a picture (which may not even be the plate that is for sale). I prefer to provide as much info as possible. Not just to help sell the item, but also to make the listing as interesting as possible. The upside of doing this is that you do not get a lot of questions about things because you have already provided the answers. The downside is that everything you say about the item is open to question by the buyer, in particular the condition of your merchandise. I don't really mind this because I want happy customers and if I make a mistake (accidentally or through ignorance) I want to make it right.

I recommend that everyone build up a library of books that apply to their own interests whether you are a buyer, seller or collecter.

I did manage to get a few new items listed from my weekend buys.

Thanks for listening.....☺☺☺☺

Another Goodwill Score - Metlox Fruit Basket Chop Plate

2009-08-17T16:36:00.000-07:00

Sent off my Franciscan Creole Plate this morning and of course I had to stop at Goodwill for a little "looksee". They had a very nice selection of Franciscan Madeira, but I have a lot of Madiera and it hasn't sold that well for me so I passed it by. Here's what I currently have listed:

Franciscan Madiera at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Than I spotted a huge (14") Metlox Fruit Basket Chop Plate. (Update 08/09) Listed:

Metlox Fruit Basket Chop Plate at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall
Although this is a fairly common pattern, I knew from experience that these extra large chop plates are fairly rare in this really great condition and when I saw the price was right I snapped it up. when I got back to the house I discovered with glee that it has a current replacement cost of $54.99. I'll list it tomorrow if I have time. Here is a link to the only other Fruit Basket I have:

Metlox Fruit Basket Vegetable Bowl at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

I spent most of the rest of the day fighting with the Brock pieces that I was trying to list. It is really difficult to try and get any kind of accurate information about ware from any company when there is hardly any reference material available and Brock is one of these companies. I listed two more pieces today and it was interesting.

One is a Harvest (Brown) Pepper Shaker. I had a hard time finding any info, but I finally sorted it out and discovered that Brock actually had issued three different shapes of Salt and Pepper Shakers with their Provincial (my name) patterns. This one is in the Jug shape and the other two were Candlestick and Milk Can. I don't know if all of three of these were issued in all of these patterns, but it looks like they were. The Milk Can Shape appears to be the one that is most available.

The other piece is a Chanticleer mini ewer or carafe. It is identical to the the large coffee carafes in these patterns except that it is only 4 1/2" tall. It has a very bad chip in the rim just behind the spout and ordinarily I wouldn't have listed it, but since I couldn't find any available or even proof that they existed, I decided it was scarce enough to preserve and offer to some dedicated Brock collector.

Here's the link again:

Brock of California at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

I promise to try and be more productive tomorrow.
Thanks for listening... ☺☺☺☺

Brock Pottery - A Confusing Day

2009-08-16T17:02:00.000-07:00

This has been one of those days for me that you take one step forward and two back. I decided to list some Brock Pottery pieces that have some minor defects (Sorry, I realize that is a subjective definition.). At any rate I ran into problems right from the start. I usually clone existing listings if I have any and add changes to the pictures and words as needed. Unfortunately I found that many of my existing Brock listings had errors in them that I absolutely had to correct before moving on to anything new. I did finally manage to list two new items. A Harvest (brown) creamer and a gravy boat in the same pattern. By the time I finished these I was cross-eyed and ready to do something else for a while. I'll get back to the Brock tomorrow. Here's the link to what there is already.

Brock of California at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

I also managed to get the Sango Sabrina Bowls I acquired last week listed:

Sango Sabrina at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

One last item to report. I did sell a Franciscan Creole Dinner Plate.

Description -- California Pottery, Picnic Line. Earthenware. 10 3/4" diameter. Deep honey and dark brown with embossed trim. Excellent used condition with minor utensil scratches. Issued in 1973. Estimated replacement price $17.99.
Historical Data -- Gladding, McBean and Company started in 1875. The company grew and acquired other potteries. They made sewer pipes, floor tiles, dinnerwares, and art pottery with a variety of trademarks. In 1934, dinnerware and art pottery were sold under the name Franciscan Ware. The company became Interpace Corporation and in 1979 was purchased by Josiah Wedgwood & Sons. The plant was closed in 1984 and all production was moved to England.
Picnic Line-- The Picnic Line was designed to reflect the 1970's. Bold colored florals, dark brooding exotica and happy sunny irreverence are Picnic themes.

Thanks for listening..... ☺☺☺☺

Pottery from the Swap Meet - Nikko, Pearl, Johnson Brothers

2009-08-15T12:20:00.000-07:00

On the way back from the Casino early this morning I had my wife drop me at the Swap Meet. I didn't really expect to find anything. In fact, I didn't even have my (really vintage) Kipling backpack with me. as things turn out I was wrong again. I found two very salable items, a small Johnson Brothers Rose Chintz Platter at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall and a Nikko English Garden Coffee Pot at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall. While both are very nice pieces they are only of interest to me as merchandise.

I also found a beautiful (in my eyes at least) Pearl China teapot.

Yellow with heavy gold trim and a stylized gold flower & leave design. Unfortunately it suffers from a few aches and pains, heavy loss of the gold trim and a very visible chip on the opening rim. I don't know if I will list this piece, but it is exactly the type of item I love to buy for study purposes. For example, since this is a teapot and Pearl worked out of a Hall China facility (by most accounts the largest manufacturer of teapots in the world), I think there is a high probability that the teapot was made by Hall and decorated by Pearl China. Now a small part of my mind will always be on the lookout for proof of this.

The Pearl China Company was formed in 1931 by George and Dennis Singer as a pottery outlet. I believe they were primarily a decorating company. They used a leased part of the Hall China Plant in Liverpool Ohio. Their new store was opened in 1939 on Dresden Road in East Liverpool, Ohio and they distributed items from many companies, Homer Laughlin among them. They went out of business in 1958.

I do have a pretty pair of Pearl China candle holders listed in my store.

Pearl China at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Thanks for listening.... ☺☺☺☺

Poetry 101 Sunday Night

2009-08-14T17:51:00.000-07:00

Sunday Night

Once again the stirring and the light sit down together in the night.
His strength wore down by weeks work pile.
He needs her for a little while.
He reads his rhymes of life and love.
She listens quiet as a dove.
Her eyes they twinkle oft with joy.
Does she listen or does she toy.
He looked into those pools of brown.
Wondering if her mind does frown.
Each poem he does recite with fire.
Hoping in her creation to inspire.
The time is short. She will not dally.
Her evenings wants within her rally.
The time has come to part and go.
He bids her luck both high and low.
Then walks away his home to go.
The Old Guy
18 Mar 2001

Franciscan Sea Sculpture Swap Meet Finds

2009-08-12T14:32:00.000-07:00

I rarely find much of anything at the Swap Meet on Wednesdays. A fact that has caused me to skip even going on Wednesdays much any more. Today however was an exception. I went there early and started my rounds. The first time through I didn't see anything that even remotely interested me. Probably because most of the dealers were still unloading their trucks and setting up their stalls. When I started through the second time I assumed it would be more of the same, but I couldn't have been more mistaken.

I was almost finished when I noticed a big junk dealer had just finished setting up. Usually, if he has anything at all, it is so badly damaged as to be worthless to me. I immediately saw a stack of Franciscan Sea Sculpture plates and began checking them for damage. Amazingly they were in perfect condition except for some wear on the marks (common in Franciscans Sculpture line). I picked them up and started away to find out the price when I spotted a few cereal bowls on the same table that I recognized as belonging to Franciscans primary sculpture line. These were the first primary white bowls I had ever come across and I knew they were fairly rare because of the number of requests I have had for them in the past. The lot consisted of 5 plates and three cereal bowls and while I never reveal my cost I will say that I got them for a song.

When I got home and discovered the lot had a replacement value of over $200.00 I was very, very happy. I have already listed all of the plates as I had photos of them from past sales and listings. I will list the bowls as soon as I can photograph them. These very plain bowls were the most valuable part of the buy at $34.00 each for replacement cost. They are listed:

Franciscan Sea Sculpture at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

I almost forgot, on the way out I picked up 4 Studio Nova Attitudes Dinner Plates for another very low price. They are listed:

Studio Nova at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Thanks for listening.... ☺☺☺☺

Clays in Calico Pottery - Found in a Box

2009-08-11T16:57:00.000-07:00

When I closed down my last brick & mortar store, I tried to list everything that I had that I thought might sell and help pay some of the huge debt that I had run up at the time. All of the rest went into bags and boxes and up into the rafters of my garage to be dealt with when times got a little better and I had a little more time. I guess that time has come because I have started to dig through them. Actually I'm finding that the knowledge I have gained in the last five years of studying pottery has turned some of this "unknown trash" into some very interesting and possibly profitable treasure. One of these items is shown in the pictures below. Introducing the one and only "Clays in Calico Barrel Mug"'

I call it one and only because that is exactly what it is. It is valuable only in knowledge, not in cash. Clays in Calico was founded by Mr & Mrs Wes VanGorden in 1960 in an old hotel in Cardwell, Montana. The original Building is gone and the pottery has been managed bt Ron & Linda Jung since 1979. Each piece is unique and is made from local precambrian shale that has been separated into the three colors and than poured into the molds. This particular shale is not found anywhere else in the world. Every piece that is made is different because of the colors and swirl patterns caused by pouring the molten clays anto the molds.

It is a little more complicated than that and here is a link to their home page that will explain it a lot better than I can.

Clays in Calico

Of course since I am in business I have listed this piece:

Clays in Calico Barrel Mug in Quality Junk at the Atomic Mall

Thanks for listening.... ☺☺☺☺

Goodwill Pottery - Furnivals, Sango

2009-08-10T14:37:00.000-07:00

Furnivals Brown Quail Round Serving BowlAfter shipping my Stangl order out this morning I stopped at Goodwill and found a beautiful Furnivals (Staffordshire) Round Vegetable Bowl in the Brown Quail Pattern in pristine condition. As near as I can tell the mark and registry number are from 1921. What I paid is of course a trade secret, but I can tell you that it was a bargin for this piece which has a current replacement value of $80.00. I will list it soon. I was particularly happy to get it since I have no Furnivals in stock at this time.

Furnival was one of the fine Staffordshire potteries, established in 1865 by Thomas Furnival & Sons. in January 1913 the name was changed from "Furnivals" to "Furnivals (1913) Ltd". The works were closed in 1968 and the company name was purchased by Enoch Wedgwood (Tunstall) Ltd. The rights to the name are still owned by Wedgwood.

Furnival Quail Bowl at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Sango Sabrina BowlsI also picked up a couple of Sango Sabrina Bowls (one rimmed soup & one coupe serving), because the price was right and I have good luck with Sango replacements. Sango Ceramics Indonesia is the leading ceramics tableware distributer based in Indonesia. They have fine china, porcelain, and stoneware for home as well as for the hospitality industry manufactured in a number of countries. Their products are exported and sold everywhere. This pattern is most likely a Sango product distributed by their American marketing firm(PTS International).

Sango at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

I was also able to photograph my Swap Meet purchases from Saturday and will start listing them tomorrow.

Thanks for listening... ☺☺☺☺

Stangl - A Rare Early August Sale

2009-08-09T13:11:00.000-07:00

I wasn't kidding a few days ago when I said that July sales were as rare as hens teeth and August sales are always just about the same. It seems however that there are a few brave buyers out there who haven't heard the word yet.An order came in yesterday for some Stangl Fruit items, a pair of Fruit salt & pepper shakers and a 24oz Fruit pitcher.

The salt & pepper shakers have no physical damage but the bottom has some staining where moisture has leeched through the unglazed Terra Cotta on the base. Both have the original Stangl stoppers.

The Pitcher has a Terra Cotta Body with glossy brown interior. White exterior with handpainted fruit design. 4 5/8" high x 3 1/4" opening x 3 1/4" foot x 6 3/4" spout to handle. Unfortunately there is a large underspout chip which has resulted in visible moisture underglaze moisture staining. Otherwise excellent condition with no cracks or crazing. First issued in 1942 and discontinued in 1978.

Stangl Pottery traces its history back to the Fulper Pottery of New Jersey. John Stangl returned to the Fulper Pottery in 1920, became president in 1926, and changed the company name to Stangl Pottery in 1929. The pottery is known for dinnerware and a line of bird figurines. In 1972 the pottery was sold to Frank Wheaton, Jr., of Wheaton Industries. Production continued until 1978, when Pfaltzgraff Pottery purchased the right to the Stangl trademark and the remaining inventory was liquidated.

These are very collectible items, but of course with the damage I discounted them and I am very glad that someone is giving them a happy home. I will ship them out tomorrow.

More Stangl Pottery at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Thanks for listening.... ☺☺☺☺

Saturday Swap Meet Finds

2009-08-08T14:03:00.000-07:00

An interesting morning at my favorite hangout. I bought a lot of merchandise which I will list for you later, but I want to tell you about the one that I didn't buy. Walking down one of the aisles I spotted a large table loaded with plates and bowls. Looking closer I saw that it was restaurantware and turning over one of the plates it was marked Wallace. Each piece was pink covered with white flowers completely up to the edges. I had seen this before and was almost positive that it was a line that Wallace had made specifically for the Hawaiian restaurant and hotel market back in the 50's. The designs were later copied by TEPCO sold with the same names. A big trademark lawsuit was filed and I think the result was that TEPCO had to change the names. There were almost 100 pieces, but almost all were flatware and cereal bowls. I have a Shadowleaf platter from Wallace that is a part of this line listed for $150.00, but I wasn't sure about the value of these common pieces. The dealer wanted $80.00 for the lot which I really didn't want to spend without more information, so I passed it by.

After I got home I did the research. Couldn't find a lot except to verify what I already knew and find out that replacements designates the pattern as WAL6. Unfortunately I can't find much pricing information. I found a chop plate on ebay for $5.99. I think that is way under priced for this item, but I'm glad I didn't buy the lot. I'll see if the dealer wants to negotiate tomorrow if the china is still there.

Here's a shot of the Shadowleaf platter that I have in the store:

Wallace Shadow Leaf Platter

This is a typical example of how I learn things even when I don't buy the items. I need to start taking a small camera with me to take pictures of these items.

Now on to the items I did buy:

5 Vernon Kilns Homespun Luncheon Plates Update (08/12/09) Listed: Vernon Kilns Homespun at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Six various Homer Laughlin Theme Shape California Mission wall plates Update (08/11/09) All of these Mission plates have been listed.

Church Plates at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

One California Mission Plate unknown pottery Update (08/11/09) Listed

A beautiful large tab handled Japanese platter. Either Kyoto or Jyoto I'm not sure yet.Update (08/12/09) Listed: Kyoto Platter at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

☺☺☺☺

More Not So Quality Junk - Mason's Chamber Pot

2009-08-07T07:37:00.000-07:00

This is a perfect example of "One mans trash is another mans treasure". When I first saw this piece laying on the ground in a pile of junk at the swap meet, my immediate reaction was to just walk away. It was dirty and cracked and the handle was broken off but the "Bottom mark checker" syndrome kicked in and I picked it up to look. Seeing the Mason's Ironstone mark, I decided to look a little further and noticed that it used to have a handle that was broken off and missing. This was my first clue that it was not a planter as I had originally thought but a chamber pot. Then I noticed something else about it that was different. It was obviously a blue willow design but there were only two figures on the bridge instead of three. That was something I had never seen before and I knew that I wanted to study it further if the price was right. It was in such bad shape that the seller was glad to get rid of it so I paid his price and took it home with me.

What I already knew was that the Mason's were a family of potters trading under various styles at Lane Delph and Fenton (Staffordshire) from c.1800 to c.1854. Charles James Mason patented the famous 'PATENT IRONSTONE CHINA' in 1813. The Mason patterns, molds, etc., passed through several firms to Messrs. G L Ashworth & Bros in 1861. This firm was renamed 'Mason's Ironstone China Ltd' in 1968.

From my research it appears to be circa 1840's and if it were in good condition probably retails at around $300-$400. Apparently the Two Man Willow was a common variation back than and the story of two young lovers being chased across the bridge by the girls irate father had not yet become widespread.

Another fact that surfaced from my efforts to get information about this piece was that the Willow pattern actually originated in England in the late 1700's and was than copied in other countries including Japan. I may be the last to find out about this as I always assumed it that it was first used in the Orient and spread throughout the world from there.

I guess the point that I am trying to make here is that sometimes something that appears worthless can yield a great deal of valuable information. Since my limited finances make me more a collector of information than actual pottery I don't pass by damaged pieces without at least considering the fact that they may have secrets to unlock and should not be tossed in the trash so quickly.

Here are some other images that better show the damaged areas:

Quite frankly I don't know if I will ever list this pot for sale, but it has already deposited a large sum in my knowledge bank.

Mitterteich Find At Goodwill

2009-08-06T14:49:00.000-07:00

Mitterteich MIT1 DinnerwareSince I had a shipment to go out I stopped at Goodwill on the way back from the Post Office and picked up some odd pieces of Mitterteich that were just sitting there. I thought that they were a match for my Norway Rose pieces, but when I got back home and looked at them again I realized that they were a totally different pattern in the same shape as Norway Rose. I finally found them by browsing through the Mitterteich at Replacements Ltd. There is no pattern name, but replacements designates them Mit1. They have pink rose buds instead of the brown orange Norway Rose flowers. I will take pics and list them ASAP. I was pleased to add another Mitterteich pattern to the store as I only have the Norway Rose right now and Mitterteich is really high quality ware. There are four cups, 3 salad plates and one dinner plate in the lot. (Update 08/11/09)Listed: Mittertech at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Taylor, Smith & Taylor Calendar PlateGetting back to the shipment that went out. It was a Taylor, Smith & Taylor 1959 Calendar Plate. This plate is frequently referred to as the Holland Blue plate because of the windmill design and blue background color. The thing that amazes me is that this was one of the TS & T listings that I just transferred from Blujay a couple of days ago and it is already sold on Atomic Mall. Actually I had this plate listed on Yahoo auctions for years before Blujay. This may just be the luck of the draw, but I think it just further demonstrates why I love the Atomic Mall.

I should also say that this renews my interest in Calendar plates and I am going to start actively looking for them to add to my store.
Calendar Plates at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

As a footnote I also listed more of my Sunday buys and updated that post. Here's the backlink again.

Sunday at the Swap Meet

Thanks for listening.... ☺☺☺☺

Another Listing Day

2009-08-05T17:10:00.000-07:00

I spent the day photographing, editing and listing most of the items that I purchased last Sunday. Since I listed them in my last post I found it convenient to just update them there also. Here is a back link to the updates.

Sunday at the Swap Meet

Don't have time for more today.

Thanks for listening..... ☺☺☺☺

Sunday at the Swap Meet

2009-08-02T12:20:00.000-07:00

Well I missed a couple of days here in blogland, but I have a great excuse. I heard the call of the wild coming from Viejas casino and had to answer it. Went out Friday night for a little while and than again on Saturday. Since I came home with a couple of bucks more than I took out there I consider it to have been a successful interlude.

This morning I went to my swap meet for a couple hours of walking around and shopping. It's interesting to note that yesterday I didn't find a thing there and this morning I picked up quite a few interesting items that I will list after researching them.Here's a quick list to let you know what's coming.

A lot of seven Burden China Canteen Service Bowls (update 08/04/09) - These are actually China Bowls from an era (post WWII) when Hollywood Studios used real china for their studio canteens. I am still researching but I am fairly certain that the V mark on them is a WWII victory symbol. All adds up. Burden's first issues were in 1945, Right at the end of the war. I will probably do a complete post on these when I have pics and more info. Listed: Burden China at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall
M.A. Hadley Country Scene (Blue) 13 1/2" Soup Tureen Base (update 08/04/09)This set has a very large number of pieces and was first issued in 1940. Additional pieces, modifications and deletions have been made ever since. This is still an active pattern. Listed: M.A.Hadley Pottery at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall
Two Harmony House Romance dinner plates (update 08/04/09)I don't know who made these for Sears, but they are definitely USA made according to the mark. Listed: Harmony House China at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall
A Craftsman (Japan) Green Bamboo dinner plate (update 08/04/09)I purchased this beautiful plate because it reminded me of an Otagari Iris Bowl I have, but this piece is much lighter. Listed: Craftsman China at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall
A Homer Laughlin Best China 11 1/2" oval platter with a pastel floral rim (update 08/06/09)I believe that The "Best" in this case refers to the quality of this line. Listed: Homer Laughlin Best China at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall
A MIJ Blue Willow bread plate (Update 08/11/09) I believe this to be Maruta even though it is not marked. Listed: Maruta bread plate at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall
A Craftsman (Japan) Willow (blue) salad plate and fruit bowl (update 08/06/09)Upon close inspection I found that these both have small rim chips, but I listed them anyway because of the beauty of this pattern. Listed: Craftsman China at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall
A 15" Hall white Fish plate with a sauce bowl in the tail (update 08/04/09) I have seen these in colors, but never in all white before. Listed: Hall China at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

It will take me a while to photograph and research these, but I will list them all as soon as I can. There was a lot more pottery there that I would normally have considered good buys, but during this slow period of the year I just don't have the storage space and I don't like to buy more than I can process in a reasonable time frame.

Thanks for Listening..... ☺☺☺

Listing Day Taylor, Smith & Taylor

2009-07-30T16:15:00.000-07:00

Well today has turned out to be a very productive day for me. I was able to list a few new items and at the same time move more glassware and pottery from Blujay to Atomic Mall.

I was finally able to finish moving the last of my Taylor, Smith and Taylor from Blujay to Atomic Mall.

This was one of the great Potteries of the Ohio river valley. Located in Chester West Virginia, It was formed in 1899 as Taylor, Lee & Smith. Because of internal differences Lee left the company 1n 1901 and the name was changed to Taylor,Smith & Taylor. By 1906 Smith had bought out the Taylor's and became the sole owner. Col. Taylor remained on the board and the name was retained even after the company was purchased by Anchor Hocking in 1972 to become the foundation of their pottery division. T,S & T finally closed its doors in 1981. Like so many American potteries a victim of foreign competition.

Taylor, Smith & Taylor at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

Enough for today. Thanks for listening...☺☺☺

Quality Junk

March Sales: Sakura, Caribe Sterling, Sone, Johann Haviland, Decora Ceramics, Shenango, Harmony House, Royal Copenhagen

February Sales: Spode, Noritake, Fitz & Floyd

Atomic Mall Sidewalk Sale

Missing a Month.

Pottery Sales: Franciscan, Fukagawa, Lenox, Mikasa, Syracuse

Updates to My Atomic Mall Store Pottery Categories

Pottery Sales: Beatrice Albert, Harmony House, Seyei

Poetry 101 - What is the Light?

Pottery Sales: Frankoma, Mikasa, California Pottery, Royal (USA), Haeger, Metlox, Franciscan

Pottery Buys: Pacific Clay Products, Sango, Leigh Potters, Nasco, Mitterteich, Iroquois, Preston-Hopkinson, Noritake, Sone

Pottery Sales: Fine China of Japan, Franciscan, Metlox, Stetson, Carrollton, Nasco, Johnson Brothers, Lenox

Pottery Sales - Lenox, United Airlines, Franciscan, Royal USA, Mikasa, Hall

Pottery - Buy & Sell - Noritake, Red Wing, Taylor, Smith & Taylor, Villeroy & Boch, Winfield, Bauer, Paden City, Norcrest

Pottery Buy & Sell - Stangl, Franciscan, Lifetime, Alfred Meakin

Pottery Sales - Lenox, Syracuse, Catalina

Google Base Attributes

Swap Meet Pottery - Franciscan, Haviland Limoges, Franklin Mint, Homer Laughlin Fiesta, Fukagawa, Stangl

Pottery Buy & Sell - Kikusui, Franciscan, Milk Glass, Myott, Royal (USA)

Swap Meet Pottery - Nippon, Noritake, Fukagawa, W. German, Lenox, Harmony House

Pottery Buy & Sell Jackson China, Homer Laughlin, Princess House, Kari Designs, Mikasa

Pottery Update - United Airlines, Noritake, Furnivals

Swap Meet Pottery - Franciscan, Metlox, Danbury Mint, Royal Worchester, Royal (USA), NASCO (USA)

More Problems with Google

Pottery Sale - Fukagawa

Swap Meet Pottery - CAPSCO, Hoenig of California, Josefs Originals

Swap Meet Pottery -Bauer, Yakumo, Syracuse, Mason's

Happy Days Are Here Again

Poetry 101 - Expectations

Disaster Strikes Again

Pottery Buy & Sell Salem Shakers, English Bone Dishes

Swap Meet Pottery - Seyei, Heron Cross

Trading Cards Are Back Again

Swap Meet Pottery - Noritake

Otagiri Tea Set - Another Great Sale

Pottery Sales - Harmony House & Williams Sonoma

Swap Meet Pottery - Minton, Bennington, Occupied Japan

Pottery Sales Sango & Princess House

Problems, Problems

Goodwill Pottery - Noritake & Carrigaline

A Busy Weekend & A Power Failure

Hot Pottery - Alaskan Clay Vase - ENCO Mini Mug

Swap Meet Pottery - Otagiri, Lenox

Painting the Bridge - Keeping Up With All This Pottery

Goodwill Find - Brock Chanticleer Pottery

More Swap Meet Pottery - Cunningham & Picket (Homer Laughlin) Acacia Dinnerware

Swap Meet Pottery - Sheffield (USA), Mason's Ironstone

Noritake Rose China - an August Sale

Health 101 - the Doctor is in!!

Franciscan Starburst Tile

A Rare Cold Day in Southern California

Books, Books Everywhere - Not a Book to Spare

Another Goodwill Score - Metlox Fruit Basket Chop Plate

Brock Pottery - A Confusing Day

Pottery from the Swap Meet - Nikko, Pearl, Johnson Brothers

Poetry 101 Sunday Night

Franciscan Sea Sculpture Swap Meet Finds

Clays in Calico Pottery - Found in a Box

Goodwill Pottery - Furnivals, Sango

Stangl - A Rare Early August Sale

Saturday Swap Meet Finds

More Not So Quality Junk - Mason's Chamber Pot

Mitterteich Find At Goodwill

Another Listing Day

Sunday at the Swap Meet

Listing Day Taylor, Smith & Taylor