Each item that eventually becomes a collector's treasure did not get there by happenstance. These pieces have nearly always been made with great attention to detail and with enduring significance or beauty in mind.
Take, for instance, this beautiful Minton china set marketed by Tiffany & Co. To many antique collectors, pieces such as these represent the finest traditions of English porcelain craftsmanship.
At first glance, it may appear as something one might find in a modern department store.
THE BEAUTY OF RAISED GOLD
- Raised gold on antique china was a premium decorative technique in which genuine high-carat gold was applied over a raised surface, creating depth, texture, and a sense of luxury that is immediately noticeable.
- This process is time intensive compared to china made in the typical fashion. Not only that, but the liquid gold used is costly.
- Collectors today appreciate these pieces because of their timeless elegance that has lasted through the years due to the expert techniques used.
THE IMPORTANCE OF A MAKER'S MARK
- When evaluating antique china or porcelain, do not overlook the importance of a maker's mark. These marks not only show who made the item, but they also serve to authenticate the piece and to verify the quality and prestige.
- Because many of these manufacturers were renowned for their exquisite pieces, this mark is also a way to aid in pattern identification and to separate the "factory seconds" as we might call them today from the top-tier items.
- Although these marks are very important, they do not tell the whole story. They identify the factory where the piece was made, but the artist or original designer is not typically part of that mark.
- Even if all of that information was included in the maker's mark, a piece of quality china, or better yet, a complete set, has more than likely been in more than one home and probably more than one country. If these pieces could talk, oh, the stories they could tell. Imagine the holiday tables, family celebrations, and quiet afternoon teas these pieces may have witnessed over the decades.
SYMBOLS HIDDEN IN PLAIN SIGHT
This beautiful Victorian lamp portrays symbolism that many modern observers may overlook. Notice the heart motifs around the font with the stars repeated inside each heart.
- Hearts typically symbolized affection, family, and hospitality.
- Stars represented hope, guidance, and aspiration.
- Floral patterns were used to convey emotion and affection or even to make warnings - using a particular flower allowed one to bypass certain aspects of social etiquette.
- Other symbolic meanings were conveyed through jewelry, art, and even everyday objects.
CONDITION MATTERS
- Minor manufacturing imperfections can occasionally be found in antique pieces, but collectors generally place the highest value on examples with minimal damage and wear.
- Cracks are more of a red flag than chips, since a crack in the item could easily cause it to end up in more than one piece without warning.
- Crazing of old china is sometimes unavoidable, but a collector will always place a much higher value on something without it.
- Wear to gilding on old china is also a common age-related imperfection that may make the item less desirable in the eyes of a collector.
CRAFTSMANSHIP ENDURES
Although antiques are old, their value to collectors comes from far more than age alone. Whether examining Minton china, a Victorian lamp, or another treasured antique, craftsmanship, symbolism, and history continue to inspire collectors today.
