During the mid 1700s, a British company was founded by Josiah Wedgwood. This company specialized in pottery. Ireland’s Waterford Company was founded in the late 1700s and was known for its beautiful crystal. The two companies merged and became knows as the Waterford Wedgwood Company.
When most people think of Wedgwood, they probably visualize the Jasper items. While the background is a solid color, the white highlighting artwork has either ancient Egyptian, Greek, or Roman mythological themes.
Wedgwood collectibles
History of the Wedgwood Collectibles
Wedgwood Collectibles are collectibles produced by the Wedgwood Company, originally founded by Josiah Wedgwood in 1759. The company is a British pottery firm producing fine British porcelain china meant to imitate that produced in China at the time. There are many fine products available for sale; many of them are collectibles.
Wedgwood Collectibles were started when Josiah Wedgwood accepted a sizable dowry from his bride Sarah Wedgwood. This was clearly enough money to start making earthenware and the company has been in the family for generations, still even today.
In 1987, Wedgwood merged with Waterford Crystal, forming the corporation Waterford Wedgwood. Today the corporation consists of three separate companies: Waterford, Wedgwood, and Royal Doulton. These three companies each offer fine collectibles.
Collecting Wedgwood Collectibles
There are different categories of Wedgwood Collectibles which have been produced throughout the years. Jasperware is the most commonly produced, so it is not worth as much as other fine porcelain wares produced by Wedgwood.
Queensware, or Queen’s Ware, is another Wedgwood Collectibles production and is a type of ware that was produced for the Queen of England at the time. Queensware is still produced today as commemorative pieces meant to commemorate the Queen. This product is worth a good amount of money. There are many pieces in this collection, including many figurines and collectible pieces.
Wedgwood Collectibles are available as figurines, Christmas ornaments, and the like. There are many pieces available through Wedgwood that do not fit into either the Jasperware or Queensware categories, and these are Wedgwood Collectibles. This is the type of collection that is most valuable to collectors.
Wedgwood Collectibles
When searching for Wedgwood Collectibles there are some things to keep in mind about validating the authenticity of the collectibles. Most Wedgwood Collectibles are clearly marked with a logo. This stamp will have the name Wedgwood and the word England, along with the letter W above it. Sometimes Wedgwood products have a picture of an urn, though rarely any picture other than that. Another marks state Wedgwood of Etruria & Barlaston. These marks show true Wedgwood Collectibles.
There are also some fake marks that can help to determine authentic Wedgwood Collectibles from inauthentic. There is another company called Wedgewood producing regular dinnerware or collectibles for Avon in England. True Wedgwood Collectibles spell their logo W-e-d-g-w-o-o-d without the E. The other company is Enoch Wedgwood of Tunstall. Their mark usually states Wedgewood & Co. and includes a unicorn. This company is not the true Wedgwood.
Do You Have Flaws in Your Wedgwood Collectibles?
Cracks in the porcelain decrease the value significantly. A person buying for monetary value should take that into consideration before purchasing a cracked piece of Wedgwood.
Chips also bring down the value of Wedgwood Collectibles. A collector should take note that a noticeable chip in a pottery piece will bring down the value of the piece significantly. The size of the chip determines the loss of value, so a large chip should not be overlooked in determining worth.
Crazing is another flaw that sometimes occurs with porcelain. This is the term for spidery veins that creep across the surface of the porcelain. As with chips or cracks, keep in mind that crazing does bring down the value of Wedgwood Collectibles.
Caring for Wedgwood Collectibles
Sculptures and figurines may collect dus,t in particular. These may be washed using a soft cloth and mild detergent. Nothing else should be needed to keep them clean. Many Wedgwood Collectibles sculptures and figurines contain many intricate details. These details are better cleaned using a soft makeup brush than a cloth, along with water and mild detergent. Never get water into the hole at the base of the pottery and dry with a soft cloth. Allow the more intricate details to air dry. Make sure the collectibles are completely dry before returning them to their display case.
Dinnerware may be used as regular dinnerware. When washing by hand, avoid using abrasive detergents or cleaners which may scratch or tarnish the dinnerware. Most stains can easily be removed by soaking in warm soapy water. Any major brands of detergents should be safe.
Wedgwood Collectibles are fine porcelain products that, with care, can be enjoyed for many years to come. With a rich background and unique designs, these are very popular collectibles. Though some skill is involved in determining authenticity and verifying designs, the effort is well worth the durability and value through the years. This is a worthy investment for a knowledgeable collector and a very enjoyable pastime.
