American Royalty Dinnerware, also known as Arita porcelain, is a type of fine bone china dinnerware produced by the Noritake Company in Japan. The history of American Royalty dinnerware dates back to the late 19th century and is closely tied to the history of the Noritake Company.
The Noritake Company was founded in 1904 by a Japanese entrepreneur named Kaneyoshi Miyoshi, who had previously worked for the Japanese government’s porcelain factory. Miyoshi wanted to create a high-quality porcelain that would compete with European porcelain, which was highly prized at the time. He hired a team of skilled craftsmen and began producing porcelain using traditional Japanese techniques.
In the early 1900s, Noritake began exporting its porcelain to the United States, where it became popular among American aristocrats and high-society families. The company’s products were known for their high quality, beauty, and durability. To appeal to the American market, Noritake created a brand called “American Royalty,” which featured ornate designs and intricate patterns inspired by European aristocracy.
The American Royalty line quickly gained popularity among American households, particularly among those who valued fine china. The dinnerware was characterized by its elegant designs, delicate handles, and exquisite craftsmanship. Each piece was carefully hand-painted and fired at high temperatures to achieve a hard, durable finish.
Throughout the 20th century, American Royalty dinnerware continued to be popular among Americans who appreciated fine china. The company expanded its production lines to include a range of patterns and designs, from classic floral motifs to modern geometric patterns.
In the 1960s and 1970s, American Royalty dinnerware became a staple in many American homes, particularly among those with traditional or classic tastes. The company’s products were often used for formal occasions such as weddings, anniversaries, and holiday gatherings.
In recent years, American Royalty dinnerware has experienced a resurgence in popularity among collectors and enthusiasts of fine china. The company has continued to produce new designs and patterns while maintaining its commitment to quality and craftsmanship.
Today, American Royalty dinnerware is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts of fine china. The company’s products can be found in museums and private collections around the world, and original pieces are highly valuable due to their rarity and historical significance.
Here are some interesting facts about American Royalty dinnerware:
- The original American Royalty line was introduced in the early 1900s and featured ornate designs inspired by European aristocracy.
- Each piece of American Royalty dinnerware was hand-painted by skilled artisans using traditional Japanese techniques.
- The company’s products were marketed as “American-made” to appeal to patriotic consumers during World War I.
- In the 1950s and 1960s, American Royalty dinnerware became popular among Americans who valued fine china for everyday use.
- Many famous celebrities and politicians have used American Royalty dinnerware at formal events and gatherings.
- Today, American Royalty dinnerware is highly collectible and can be found in museums and private collections worldwide.
Overall, American Royalty dinnerware is a testament to the enduring appeal of fine china and the craftsmanship of Japanese artisans. Its rich history and cultural significance make it a valuable part of our shared cultural heritage.
