TEA SIPPED IN BURIED WARTIME FIND
Q I inherited this set of cups and saucers from my dad. As a teenager, when the Second World War was happening, my father found a set of a dozen cups and saucers buried in the dirt near his birthplace in south Holland near the German border. He gave half of the set to his sister. I inherited the half he kept. The saucer diameter is 11.5 cm (4.5 inches). I'm hoping you can help identify them and let me know of their value. Kind regards,
Carol, Kitchener.
A Your lavishly gilded cups and saucers were made by Ilmenau — a porcelain maker in Thuringia, Germany with beginnings from the late 18th century. At the end of the war the firm was nationalized and renamed VEB Porzellanwerk Graf von Henneberg — presently it is known as Henneberg Porcelain. The stamp with a shield and banner on your set was first used in 1934 making it at least 85 to 90 years old. They fit well in a modern setting and tea will be tasty with a total value of $200.
Q My late mother-in-law gifted me what my husband's family says is a cheese plate. The only identifying information is a stamped code on the bottom of the plate which looks like Rd 189648. The bottom is 29 by 19 cm (11.5 x 7.5 inches). My mother-in-law was born in 1933 and emigrated to Canada from England in 1965. I understand that she treasured this piece as it had been in her family for years. If you have any knowledge regarding the origins of the piece or history pertaining to its use I would welcome your insight. Many thanks!
Mary, Hamilton.
A You have what is usually called a cheese dish but they were also advertised as cheese stands. This size held a good-sized wedge from a round of cheese. The registry number denotes the shape design as being first created in 1892. The basket weave moulded design is quite nice and the blue and orange colours imitate Japanese Imari artistry. It appears to be pottery and is most likely English with Grimwades, Ltd. of Stoke-on-trent being a possible maker. As a cheese keeper, its value is $75 today.
Q I inherited a lot of antiques from my mom, who was an avid collector of many things. She always claimed that this Hummel had some value. It stands 11.5 cm high (4.5 inches). Any information and thoughts would be appreciated. Thank you.
Paulette, Hamilton.
A Hummel figurines are about as well known as any other category of collecting. They are based on the artwork of Berta Hummel who was later known as Sister Maria Innocentia upon becoming a nun. In 1935 Goebel Art Inc. of Rodental, Germany got permission from her to use her art to create figurines. It is hard to date yours exactly without a clear marking but it is at least 50 years old and is known as “Happiness” and figure #86. This girl playing a mandolin sold well and consequently is fairly easy to find.
Asking prices range greatly and its average value is $45 today. John Sewell is an antiques and fine art appraiser. To submit an item to his column, go to the `Contact John' page at www.johnsewellantiques.ca.
Please measure your piece, say when and how you got it, what you paid and list any identifying marks. A high-resolution jpeg photo must also be included. Appraisal values are estimates only.