Pottery mark query - Mason's Ironstone - Angled Crown Patent Ironstone

by Shari J
(Cambridge ON Canada)

Pottery mark query - Mason's Ironstone - Angled Crown Patent Ironstone:- Hi there! I have recently been able to 'go through' some of my late great aunt's things...I have pieces still packed away that I received a few years ago, but these were in the box of things that so far no one else wanted!

This particular piece is fairly large and the lid has been broken and not very daintily repaired (not by me)

I, like my late aunt, seem to have the same attraction to tiny cups & jugs and things, so the fact that we obviously both were attracted to this larger 'vase' surprises me...

I would appreciate any information you could provide regarding this 'vase' and perhaps I can send in some more pictures of other pieces of hers (and mine)!

I would like to know the age, and history with regards to the mark and if possible, the use of this 'vase' or 'jug'. I hope I've hit my 200 words! Hahaha

Thank you in advance,

Shari

===========================

Reply by Peter (admin)

To:- Pottery mark query - Mason's Ironstone - Angled Crown Patent Ironstone

Hi Shari

Thanks for sharing this Mason's piece.

I am not an expert in Mason's Ironstone, but hopefully, I can help you assess the evidence.

Note the shape of the crown - it has an angular shape. Other similar Mason's marks with the ribbon banner underneath have a rounded crown.

This angular crown mark with banner is a standard Mason's mark first originating back in 1825. It was used (with tiny differences) in several later editions - namely; mid-1930's and after 1950.

So the question is, which era does this piece belong to? Assuming its not a fake or reproduction (and there are fakes around with carefully forged marks - I haven't seen this angular crown forged yet) it looks to me most like the mid 1930's mark, rather than the early 19th century or the one dating from the 1950's - but that would have to be confirmed by an expert.

As for use - it a classic Mason's ginger jar. Looking at these items sold over number of different auctions over the years, I have seen them sell for as little as $35, and as much as $500. I can't tell what the difference is. Maybe the old 19th century ones go for more and the more modern vintage are much less. So its especially difficult to assess because presumably an expert can tell the subtle differences of the mark and the decoration and the condition.

Regards

Peter (admin)