Getting back to Joan's original question, something more would have to be known
about the markings on the china to help identify its age and significance. I
collect souvenir china showing views of mine and quarries. The oldest (and
often finest) pieces that I've seen in this country were usually made in
Germany, Austria, and England. Most of them date to before WW I, with Japan
entering the souvenir market in more recent years.
Typical items include plates, cups, creamers, etc. with captioned views in color
(hand painted transfers) or black and white. Subject matter in the U.S. ranges
from stone quarries (granite, marble, slate, etc.) to metal mines, mills, and
smelters. Underground views are especially desirable. The country of origin
and name/location of the merchant selling the china is often marked on the
bottom of the piece, partly to satisfy U.S. import laws after the 1890's.
Consumer interest peaked in the early 1900's, at the same time that post cards
were the rage.
Mining souvenir china continues to be made, however. I saw some nice plates
with views of Cornish engine houses, which were being sold a few years ago in
the gift shop at the mineral museum in Camborne, Cornwall. I recall seeing
china with pictures of recent looking German mining views as well.
Woodrow Thompson
Maine Geological Survey
Augusta, Maine U.S.A.
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