Royal Winton 'Nantwich' Chintz Octagonal Plates

Story

Staffordshire potters in the 1920s wanted to recreate the look of expensive imported Indian calico textiles. Royal Winton perfected this 'chintz' transferware technique, turning everyday tea tables into blooming English gardens.

Maker / Origin

Founded by Leonard Lumsden Grimwade in 1885, Grimwades Limited (later known by their trade name Royal Winton) became the undisputed king of English chintz pottery. They revolutionized the industry by perfecting the difficult art of applying seamless, all-over lithographic transfers to complex ceramic shapes.

Condition & Value

The plates appear to be in very good vintage condition with vibrant colors and intact gold gilding on the rims. Vintage English earthenware is highly prone to crazing (fine cracks in the glaze) and minor manufacturing flaws; the presence or absence of crazing and any reverse-side staining will dictate where these fall in the value range. Value is driven by the popularity of the 'Nantwich' pattern, the desirable octagonal shape, and the fact that this is a set of three. Individual plates in this pattern typically sell for $20 to $50 depending on size and condition.