Overview
A classic example of Blue Danube dinnerware, featuring the iconic underglaze blue floral motifs inspired by 18th-century Meissen 'Blue Onion' designs.
Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
A classic example of Blue Danube dinnerware, featuring the iconic underglaze blue floral motifs inspired by 18th-century Meissen 'Blue Onion' designs.
Story
In 1951, an American importer named Hal Lipper sought to bring the prestige of European 'Blue Onion' porcelain to the post-war American middle class. He commissioned Japanese artisans to recreate the intricate, symbolic pattern that had been a status symbol in Europe since the 1730s.
Maker / Origin
Lipper International, originally Lipper & Mann, was a New York-based importer that specialized in fine glass and ceramics.
Condition & Value
The porcelain appears bright and the glaze is intact with no obvious chips, cracks, or crazing visible in the photos. There is very minor shelf wear on the unglazed foot ring, which is consistent with age. Excellent condition for this pattern maintains its utility and modest collector value.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Regional auction
· Jun 2024Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
$1,280
Dealer archive
· Mar 2024Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
$1,450
Marketplace sale
· Jan 2024Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
$980
Estate platform
· Oct 2023Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
$1,150
Auction result
· Aug 2023Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.
$1,375