Lenox is a well-known American tableware and collectible plate manufacturer. Their collector plates, in particular, have become highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. Here are some interesting facts about Lenox collector plates:
- History: Lenox was founded in 1889 by Walter F. Lenox in Trenton, New Jersey. The company has been producing high-quality ceramics for over 130 years.
- Collector plates: Lenox introduced their collector plate series in the 1960s, which featured beautiful, detailed artwork and designs. These plates were designed to be collected and displayed, rather than used as everyday serving dishes.
- Limited editions: Lenox released collector plates in limited editions, often featuring a specific theme or design. This limited availability added to the plates’ collectibility and value.
- Artist collaborations: Lenox collaborated with renowned artists, such as Thomas Kinkade and Robert Bateman, to create exclusive collector plates. These plates feature the artists’ original artwork and are highly prized by collectors.
- Retirements: Lenox would often retire a collector plate design after a certain period, making it harder to find and increasing its value. This practice has contributed to the plates’ allure and collectibility.
- Values: The value of Lenox collector plates can vary greatly, depending on factors like rarity, condition, and demand. Some plates can sell for hundreds, even thousands, of dollars.
- Collectibility: Lenox collector plates are highly sought after by collectors due to their beauty, rarity, and historical significance. Many collectors focus on completing sets or acquiring specific designs.
- Restoration and conservation: To preserve Lenox collector plates, collectors often seek professional restoration or conservation services. This helps maintain the plates’ condition and value.
Some popular Lenox collector plate series include:
- Lenox Limited Editions: These plates feature exclusive designs and limited production runs.
- Lenox Holiday: This series showcases festive designs and motifs for various holidays.
- Lenox Artist Collaborations: These plates feature artwork from prominent artists, like Thomas Kinkade and Robert Bateman.
- Lenox Seasons: This series captures the beauty of each season, with unique designs and artwork.
To learn more about Lenox collector plates, I recommend exploring online marketplaces, collector communities, and specialized websites dedicated to ceramics and collectibles.
