The history of Wedgwood collector plates is deeply tied to the legacy of Wedgwood, one of England’s most prestigious pottery and porcelain manufacturers. These plates have become prized collectibles for their craftsmanship, historical significance, and artistic beauty.
🏺 Overview of Wedgwood
- Founded: 1759 by Josiah Wedgwood in Staffordshire, England.Reputation: Known as the “Father of English Potters,” Josiah introduced revolutionary techniques and elevated ceramic production to an art form.Signature styles: Jasperware, Queen’s Ware, Basalt Ware.
🍽️ The Emergence of Collector Plates
- Though Wedgwood began producing fine tableware in the 18th century, collector plates specifically gained popularity in the mid-20th century.
📅 Key Periods:
- 1. Early Commemorative Plates (Late 1800s – Early 1900s)
Wedgwood produced special plates to commemorate royal events, exhibitions, and anniversaries.These were not marketed as “collector plates” per se, but many were saved and cherished, laying the groundwork for collectibility. - 2. Rise of the Collector Plate (1950s–1980s)
The 1950s–1970s saw the golden age of collector plate production worldwide.Wedgwood released annual Christmas plates, royal commemoratives, and limited edition series.Most popular were Jasperware plates in pale blue or green with white relief scenes (often classical or seasonal themes). - Subjects included:
- British royalty (e.g., Queen Elizabeth II coronation)
- Famous buildings and landmarks
- Seasonal/holiday themes (especially Christmas plates, started in the 1960s)
Mythology or literary scenes
- 3. Collaborations & Limited Editions (1980s–1990s)
Wedgwood collaborated with artists and issued numbered editions.These plates were often accompanied by certificates of authenticity, enhancing their collector value. - 4. Decline in Mass Popularity (2000s–present)
As tastes changed, the popularity of collector plates waned, but many are now viewed as vintage or antique treasures.
Today, vintage Wedgwood plates are popular with collectors of:
- Jasperware
- British royal memorabilia
- 20th-century decorative arts
🔍 Notable Types of Wedgwood Collector Plates
- Jasperware plates (most iconic and collectible)
- Queen’s Ware with colored scenes
- Bone china commemoratives
- Annual Christmas series
- Royal wedding and coronation plates
💡 Collector Tips
- Look for maker’s marks on the back (e.g., “Wedgwood Made in England”) to date the piece.
- Limited editions and earlier plates tend to be more valuable.
- Condition matters: chips, crazing, or fading decrease value.
- Original packaging and certificates of authenticity add appeal.
