Firstly, it is important to understand a little of its history and then, to learn what to collect and what to look out for when collecting bone china pieces.
How did it all begin? Josiah Spode is credited for the creation of bone china. Born in Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, England in 1733. Staffordshire is renowned for its ceramics and porcelain factories. Since a young man, Spode had worked with other potters and, in fact, had worked as an apprentice with Thomas Whieldon before opening his own factory, the Spode factory, in 1767. This factory is still in operation today. Although, Spode china is highly collectible, as is Minton, Coalport & Ridgeway and Davenport, his recipe for the making of bone fine china has spread all over the world, so it is important to learn and familiarise yourself with the Spode markings. Not many collectors can identify Spode china from other major manufactures producing similar wares, so, this is where you can gain the upper hand.
Why it's so collectible and a top bone china secret?
There are a number of reasons why antique china is so popular with collectors worldwide. Quality and design of the top manufacturers of bone china are unequalled and although many of the wares seem delicate bone china is the hardest and most resilient of all porcelain. Its colour is typically a translucent ivory white. Traditionally, the ingredients consists of 6 parts bone ash from pulverized animal bone, with a mix of 3.5 parts china clay (kaolin) and 4 parts chinastone (feldspar). One little secret to identify true bone chinaware is to hold a piece over a bright light. The light should pass through it.
What do I look for?
Rarity and condition is very important when it comes to searching for that collectible, particularly so in porcelain and bone chinaware. As mentioned before check for the makers mark. Since the 1770s to the present there have been over 300 backstamps for Spode. If 'England' is on the stamp then the date of manufacture is after 1890. Date marks came in 1870. Letters showed the month and two numbers indicates the year of manufacture.Shape and decoration can also determine the rarity and age of a piece.Ensure that there are no defects such as chipping, age cracks and colour ware. Look out for any repair work. Good repair work may not affect the price too greatly but try to purchase the best you can afford.
What's the best way to start collecting bone china?
Most collectible is the tea set chinaware. It is, arguably, the best way to start your collection, as you can purchase small items in a relatively inexpensive way and gradually add to your collection. Pieces can be found at car boot sales, auction rooms and garage sales and often at bargain prices, if you know what to look for. English bone china is generally beautifully decorated and, usually, of the highest quality. If you can afford to collect Spode - do so, but there are other manufacturers well worth mentioning:
- Royal Doulton
- Aynsley
- Limoges
- Haviland
- Shelly
- Paragon
are just a few you may like to consider.
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