Blue Willow China, with its iconic blue and white design, has captivated collectors for centuries. Its intricate patterns, depicting scenes of a willow tree, pagoda, and a pair of lovers crossing a bridge, have made it one of the most beloved and recognizable porcelain designs in the world. Since its creation, Blue Willow China has seen numerous reproductions and variations, but certain pieces remain highly coveted by collectors due to their rarity, historical significance, and craftsmanship. In this article, we’ll explore some of the rarest and most sought-after Blue Willow China pieces that every serious collector desires to own.
1. Early Spode Blue Willow China
One of the most prized pieces in any Blue Willow collection is the early Spode production. Spode, a renowned English pottery manufacturer founded by Josiah Spode, began producing Blue Willow China in the late 18th century. These early pieces are especially valuable due to their age, historical significance, and craftsmanship.
Spode’s early Blue Willow pieces were some of the first to use transferware printing, a technique that allowed intricate designs to be transferred onto porcelain more efficiently. This innovation made Blue Willow China more accessible to a broader audience, but the original Spode pieces remain among the most desirable due to their high quality and unique characteristics.
Why collectors desire them:
- Historical Significance: As one of the first manufacturers of Blue Willow China, early Spode pieces are considered a cornerstone of Blue Willow’s history.
- Craftsmanship: These pieces were handmade, and the quality of the porcelain and the detailing of the design are considered exceptional by collectors.
- Rarity: Due to their age and delicate nature, early Spode Blue Willow pieces are rare and highly sought after.
2. Rare Blue Willow Soup Tureens
Soup tureens are large, decorative vessels typically used for serving soup or stew at formal dinners. Blue Willow soup tureens are a rare and highly sought-after item among collectors, as they were not mass-produced and were often made in limited quantities.
These tureens often feature intricate detailing, with the Blue Willow pattern covering the entire surface. The lid typically has a decorative handle, which may also be designed in the shape of a bird, flower, or other motifs that complement the scene on the tureen. Finding an intact Blue Willow soup tureen, especially one from the 18th or early 19th century, is a rare achievement for any collector.
Why collectors desire them:
- Size and Detail: The size and detailed design of soup tureens make them stunning display pieces, and their rarity increases their desirability.
- Limited Production: Due to their function and size, soup tureens were not as commonly produced as smaller serving dishes, making them rarer and more collectible.
- Condition: Given their size and fragility, many of these pieces have been broken or damaged over time, making them difficult to find in good condition.
3. Blue Willow Plates with Early Maker’s Marks
Plates featuring the Blue Willow design, particularly those bearing early maker’s marks, are highly valued in the collector’s market. Early Blue Willow plates from the 18th and 19th centuries, especially those produced by prestigious manufacturers like Spode, Minton, or Wedgwood, are considered rare treasures.
What makes these plates especially sought after is the early maker’s mark, which was often hand-painted or stamped onto the back of the plate. These marks not only indicate the origin of the piece but also serve as proof of its authenticity and historical importance. Collectors often focus on acquiring a full set of these early plates, as the matching pieces can significantly increase the value of a collection.
Why collectors desire them:
- Authenticity: Early maker’s marks authenticate the plate’s age and origin, which is crucial for serious collectors.
- Condition and Design: Collectors seek plates in excellent condition, with minimal wear and vibrant blue designs.
- Completeness: A full set of early Blue Willow plates from a single manufacturer is a rare and coveted find for collectors, as it adds historical value to a collection.
4. Blue Willow Tea Pots
The teapot is another rare and highly sought-after Blue Willow piece, particularly those that date back to the 18th and early 19th centuries. Tea sets were essential to the culture of the time, and Blue Willow teapots were made in various sizes and styles to complement different tea sets.
Older teapots are especially valuable due to their hand-crafted nature, intricate designs, and historical significance. Some rare versions of Blue Willow teapots include additional elements such as the iconic bridge and pagoda designs, and the lid often features a small decorative finial in the shape of a bird or flower.
Why collectors desire them:
- Historical Significance: Blue Willow teapots have a long history, and early examples are rare, making them valuable to collectors.
- Functionality and Aesthetics: In addition to their decorative appeal, Blue Willow teapots were also functional, often used during tea ceremonies and gatherings.
- Condition: As with other fragile porcelain pieces, the condition of Blue Willow teapots is a key factor in determining their value. Finding one in excellent condition is a rare and significant discovery.
5. Blue Willow Jugs and Pitchers
Blue Willow jugs and pitchers are another rare and collectible item among Blue Willow China enthusiasts. These vessels were often used for serving drinks and were made in various shapes and sizes. The jugs feature the iconic Blue Willow design, but some of the rarest examples include additional decorative features such as handles designed to resemble branches or leaves.
Collectors often seek out Blue Willow pitchers and jugs that were produced by renowned manufacturers such as Spode, Minton, or Wedgwood. The most desirable pieces are those that are in excellent condition and feature well-preserved patterns.
Why collectors desire them:
- Unique Design: Blue Willow jugs and pitchers often feature unique design elements, such as handles shaped like branches or animals.
- Rarity: These items were produced in smaller quantities compared to plates or bowls, making them rarer and more desirable.
- Functionality: In addition to their aesthetic value, these jugs and pitchers were functional household items, making them an important part of Blue Willow collections.
6. Blue Willow Large Serving Platters
Large serving platters featuring the Blue Willow design are highly sought after, particularly those that date back to the 18th and 19th centuries. These platters were often used for serving large meals at formal gatherings, and their size and decoration make them a striking display piece.
Blue Willow platters were typically made in a variety of sizes, but larger ones are much rarer and more valuable. They are often the centerpiece of a Blue Willow collection, prized for both their functionality and their ornamental appeal.
Why collectors desire them:
- Size and Presence: Large serving platters make a bold statement in any collection, and their size often enhances their value.
- Age and Condition: Older serving platters are particularly desirable, as they are rarer and more difficult to find in good condition.
- Rarity: Larger platters were produced in smaller quantities, making them harder to find today.
7. Limited Edition and Commemorative Pieces
In addition to vintage and antique Blue Willow China, limited edition and commemorative pieces are also highly coveted by collectors. These pieces are often released in small quantities, making them rare and more valuable. Manufacturers sometimes create special Blue Willow pieces to commemorate specific events or anniversaries, which can increase their appeal.
Why collectors desire them:
- Exclusivity: Limited edition pieces are often produced in very small numbers, making them rare and exclusive to collectors.
- Commemorative Value: These pieces often commemorate significant historical events or milestones, adding sentimental and historical value to the collection.
- Condition and Rarity: As limited edition items, these pieces are typically in excellent condition and are rare in the market.
Conclusion
Blue Willow China is a beloved collectible that continues to captivate enthusiasts around the world. While many pieces from various eras and manufacturers are readily available, the rarest Blue Willow items stand out for their age, condition, historical significance, and intricate craftsmanship. Whether it’s an early Spode plate, a rare soup tureen, or a limited edition commemorative piece, each of these coveted items brings something unique to a collection. For passionate collectors, owning these rare Blue Willow pieces is more than just a matter of acquiring valuable porcelain; it’s about preserving a piece of history and connecting with the timeless beauty of this iconic design.
