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Married with six children and 11 grandchildren. retired from USN in 1988 with 30 years of active service.
Showing posts with label Restaurantware. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Restaurantware. Show all posts

Friday, November 27, 2009

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

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

Lenox Clipper Ship Plate click for full size viewLenox Special Order Mark click for full size view
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

United Airlines Noritake Sauce Bowl - click for full size viewUnited Airlines Noritake Sauce Bowl Marl - click for full size vieDescription -- 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

Franciscan Coronado Aqua Platter - click for full size viewFranciscan Coronado Platter Mark - click for full size viewDescription -- 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


Royal Old Curiosity Shop Chop Plate - click for full size viewRoyal China Old Curiosity Shop MarkDescription -- 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

Mikasa Color Spectrum Chop Plate - click for full size viewMikasa Color Spectrum MarkDescription -- 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

Hallcraft Fantasy Lugged Serving BowlHallcraft Fantasy MarkDescription -- 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 .... ☺☺☺☺

Sunday, November 15, 2009

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

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

Red Wing Violin Wall Pocket - click for full size viewRed Wing Violin Wall Pocket Mark - click for full size viewDescription -- 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

Noritake Hawthorne Dinner Plate - click for full size viewNoritake Hawthorne Dinner Plate Mark - click for full size view

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

Taylor, Smith & Taylor Luray Pastel Blue Mini Sugar Bowl - click for full size viewEarlier 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

Villeroy & Boch Design Naif Ashtray - click for full size viewI 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

Winfield Green Bamboo Round Serving Bowl - click for full viewThis 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

Winfiel WIN56 Large Platter - click for full size viewThis 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

Bauer Ringware Burgundy Dinner Plate - click for full size viewSwap 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

Paden City Pottery Golden Scepter Serving Bowl - click for full size viewAnother 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

Norcrest 35th Anniversary Pickle Dish - click for full size viewSwap 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 .... ☺☺☺☺

Saturday, October 24, 2009

Pottery Sales - Lenox, Syracuse, Catalina

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


Lenox Poppies on Blue Sugar Bowl - click for full size viewDescription -- 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


Syracuse SY178 Dinner Plate - click for full size viewDescription -- 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


Catalina Island Vase - click for full size viewDescription -- 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.... ☺☺☺☺

Friday, October 02, 2009

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

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 Figurine
Mikasa Santa Figurine - Click for full size viewDescription -- 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 Set
Princess House Pavillion Tureen - click for full size viewDescription -- 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 Set
Kari Designs Bittersweet Bowl Set - click for for size viewDescription -- 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 Set
Jackson Pinkhummigbird Cup Set - click to view full sizeAnother 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 Platter
Homer Laughlin Pink Radiance Oval Platter - Click for full size viewGoodwill 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.... ☺☺☺☺

Saturday, September 19, 2009

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

Swap Meet SignWell, 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 Bowls
click for full size imageMy 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 Plates
click for full size viewNext 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 Creamer
click for full size viewFor 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

click for full size viewclick for full size view

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.

click for full size view

Yakumo at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall



Thanks for listening... ☺☺☺☺

Saturday, August 08, 2009

Saturday Swap Meet Finds

Swap Meet Sign

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.

Wallace Wal6 Chop PlateAfter 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

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:

Sunday, August 02, 2009

Sunday at the Swap Meet

Viejas CasinoWell 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..... ☺☺☺

Tuesday, July 28, 2009

Technical Porcelain and Chinaware Company



Probably many of you will not recognize the company in the title, but you would if I simply called it TEPCO, the more familiar acronym. Most sources state that TEPCO was founded in 1918 by John Battista Pagliero in El Cerrito, California. At first TEPCO's production was primarily just what the name states, Technical and electrical porcelain manufacture. In the years leading up to World War II, TEPCO potters and decorators began producing beautiful airbrushed patterns on heavy ware for the restaurant and hotel trade. By the beginning of the War they were a major player in commercial china. These pieces are very much in demand by collectors today. During the War years the company was the major suppier of china for the U.S. Pacific Fleet. They continued to produce quality restaurant ware right up until the company closed around 1968.

For those who may want to learn more please check out this link:
"Reprint Of An Article About Tepco On The E.Z.Smith Web Pages"


Now for the curious among you who are probably wondering why TEPCO popped into me mind today. I was looking through some piles of china on my back patio that I simply have never got into since I closed my brick and mortar store 5 years ago and came across a number of restaurant ware pieces including a few small TEPCO berry/fruit bowls. They jogged my memory about the article above and so I decided to list them in my store and when I reread the article I felt I had to share it with you'

I am hoping to add more commercial china to the store as time allows. It is an important and continuing part of Pottery history. For now this link should show most of what I have listed.
Restaurantware at Quality Junk in Atomic Mall

Thanks for listening... ☺☺☺

Sunday, July 26, 2009

Sunday Morning Swap Meet

Swap Meet Sign

Went to the Swap Meet again today. More to get the exercise than to find anything, but you never know. I did find some pieces that I bought more to research than to sell.

Brief Descriptions:
  • Narumi NAR55 Oval Platter. 16.5" long. Gray pine needle branches with small yellow cones in the center of each needle spread. This differs from replacements description, but I am fairly certain that it is the same pattern. My guess is circa 1950's with a probable replacement value of around $75.00. It is in excellent condition with very light trim wear. (Update 06/08/09) Narumi China at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

  • Homer Laughlin California State Plate in the Cavalier Shape (not eggshell). 10" diameter. White body, pastel blue rim with gold heraldic crosses. Date marked 1956. Excellent condition. (Update 06/08/09) Listed: California Plate at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

  • Fitz & Floyd (Table Collection) Plate. All white body with a poem about "Friends" in blue. 10 3/4" diameter. Older Fitz & Floyd mark. Original paper label "Japan". (Update 06/08/09) Listed: Fitz & Floyd at Quality Junk in the Atomic Mall

I need to do more research before listing these and will update this post when I list them.

NEW ISSUE
This afternoon I found time to move my remaining Sterling China from Blujay to my Atomic Mall store.

Sterling China of Wellsville, Ohio was founded in 1917. During WWII they were a major producer of china for the U.S. Navy. They produce commercial advertising china products, but also are well known for a line of Russell Wright they first issued in 1948. In 1952 they bought out the Scamwell Company of New Jersey. They used an East Liverpool, Ohio address for business purposes. As far as I know they closed in 2006.



Buy Sterling China at Quality Junk in Atomic Mall.

Thanks for listening...☺☺☺☺