How to Know the Original Blue Willow
According to Dr. Joseph Portanova of New York University, the Chinese first produced porcelain using the clay "kaolin" as a base for dishware. In the 13th century, Chinese craftsmen used Iranian cobalt to create a vibrant blue and white finish. Eventually the familiar "Blue Willow" china pattern won great acclaim from Europeans and later Westerners who created a high demand for the pieces. Over time, many china producers created their own "blue china" or "blue willow" lines complete with fictional romantic stories to help sell the lines. Know how to identify the original products to get the best pieces for your money. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Buy and review books like "Blue Willow Identification and Value Guide" or "Collecting Blue Willow." You can find these books at hobby stores, bookstores or through online booksellers. The book needs to provide you with a guide to popular markings that may be found on the china.
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Write down specifics about your plate. Measure the china to get the dimensions and take note of the pattern displayed on the front. The pattern will be blue and white featuring lattice, a willow tree or even birds. Any combination of these or an item by itself may indicate an original willow piece.
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Turn the plate over carefully to find any special markings. Markings may be initials, an image or a symbol. Write down the information in your notes. Take photographs of the front and back of the dishes.
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Review the blue willow book you selected. Search for the markings and pattern that you have. Take the book, the written information and your pictures to an antiques dealer or antiques insurer. Ask for verification that your particular line of blue willow is an original.
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Visit blue willow forums and online clubs to exchange information about your dishes. Ask questions about how to verify your plates.
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Tips & Warnings
Attend willow conventions and join willow clubs to stay in tune with the latest willow discoveries.
Some unmarked blue willow dishes may be original.
References
- Photo Credit Henry Gan/Photodisc/Getty Images
