Who is Alfred Meakin?

Alfred Meakin was the brother of James and George Meakin who ran a large pottery company in Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent. 1930 – Newfield Pottery (in addition to above); (by 1928, known collectively as Royal Albert, Victoria and Newfield Potteries).

Is ironstone safe to eat on?

We do not recommend not using old ware unless it shows signs of deterioration such as cracking or pitting of the glaze. This could be a sign that the glaze is disintegrating and could allow lead to leach into food.

Is ironstone china valuable?

Sets complete with matching lid, underplate, and ladle are coveted, with older pieces maintaining a value of more than $1,000. Because they’re so breakable, ladles are also a hot collectors’ item, worth up to $150. CUPS The most common early ironstone drinking cup was a teacup made without a handle.

How do you know if ironstone is real?

A piece of ironstone will always feel heavier than it looks. It has a wonderful luster about it as well, that can be easily recognized if you know what you’re looking for. If the piece has a handle, hold it by the handle and flick the body of the piece. It will make a lovely “ring” if it is free of chips or cracks.

What is Ironstone made of?

Ironstone is not porcelain; it’s porous earthenware, made of clay mixed with feldspar. Patented in 1813 by Charles James Mason in Staffordshire, England, it was an immediate success, and ironstone blanks were decorated with transfer patterns or hand painting to imitate Chinese porcelain. There is no iron in ironstone.

Does Ironstone have lead in it?

According to the FDA, enforcement of leachable lead levels in tableware didn’t begin until the late 1970s, so ironstone produced before that time may contain lead in the glaze. This should be taken into account if the desire is to use the piece for serving food.

How can you tell if an ironstone is unmarked?

How can you identify ironstone if it’s unmarked? The best way for you to learn to spot ironstone is by studying a piece of ironstone. The most noticeable thing is the weight. A piece of ironstone will always feels heavier than it looks.

Where was the first piece of ironstone made?

The reference to 1851 as part of the mark, refers to the start date of the original company–Hulme and Booth. Produced in Staffordshire, England, Davenport ironstone was manufactured from 1793-1887.

Where is the best place to buy ironstone?

Johnson Bros. produced ironstone in Staffordshire England during the period 1883-2004. John Maddock & Sons produced ironstone in Staffordshire England from 1855-1960s. Red Cliff ironstone was produced in Chicago, Illinois from 1950-1980. Thomas Hughes & Sons began producing ironstone in Staffordshire England in 1895 and continued until 1957.

Where did Hulme and Booth make ironstone?

The reference to 1851 as part of the mark, refers to the start date of the original company–Hulme and Booth. Produced in Staffordshire, England, Davenport ironstone was manufactured from 1793-1887. George Jones & Sons produced ironstone in Staffordshire England from 1851-1951.

Where did George Jones and Sons make ironstone?

George Jones & Sons produced ironstone in Staffordshire England from 1851-1951. W.H. Grindley & Co. produced ironstone in Staffordshire England from 1880-1991.