Unknown Pottery Mark (England) - {ed. Identified as Samuel Radford Ltd}

by Amy W.
(Oak Harbor, Ohio)

R S or S.R. Unknown Pottery Mark (England) - {ed's note: Identified as Samuel Radford Ltd}:- I can't seem to find the name of this maker. I know from the registration marks that the piece was registered between 1902 and 1903. Can anyone tell me more about this dish?

Amy W.

There's a follow up post from Amy here:-

R S or S.R. Samuel Radford China Dish - The Rest of the Story

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reply by Peter (admin) below - just scroll down...

HOW I MADE MONEY FROM BITS & BOBS OF OLD CHINA .....more

Reply by Peter (admin)

To R S or S.R. Unknown Pottery Mark (England) - {ed. Identified as Samuel Radford Ltd}

Hi Amy

Thanks for your interesting question about the R S mystery pottery mark shown in the above photo. A clear photo like that always makes identification easier.

The R S or S.R. mark is one I am pleased to be able to identify as that of Samuel Radford Ltd, a Staffordshire maker of good quality producing fine china between 1879 and 1957.

They were originally a Longton maker, then in 1885, moved to Fenton. You are right in saying your mark was an early mark dating from c1880 to c1913, so you have a very accurate date for your wares.

After about 1913, the firm developed a new pottery mark called "Radfordian", and developed at least 10 or so different pottery marks, some using the R S or S.R. initials in various fonts, and some using the Radfordian back mark.

If you go to my China Replacement page and follow the tips on how to search efficiently online, you will find some wares from the same maker. Be aware of sellers who are not properly flagging up the quality and rarity of Samuel Radford Ltd wares. Having gone out of business in 1957 makes Radford China relatively rare. Be careful not to mistake Samuel Radford with other makers with a similar name. They are:-

RADFORD (signature on printed ware)- Relates to engraver Thomas Radford.

E. RADFORD - Relates to H.J. Wood Ltd

G. RADFORD - Relates to Radford Handcraft Pottery

I am not a china expert by any means, just an artisan within the industry, however, I always pass on any information I have for free and publish it for all to benefit from. You can use my in-house search engine located on the home page (and on many other main pages) to check for answers to any other queries you may have.

My own knowledge more centered on famous English china makers, but all queries are welcome.

As for values, people need to take into account the changing market in the current economy. Items fetching premium prices a couple of years ago are no longer, and other things becoming 'fashionable'.

Best regards,

Peter (admin)

p.s. The following page is a 'must see' if you are researching fine china - for value and identification:-

Researching the identity and value of antique and vintage fine china.

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