The Centuries-Old Dishware Design That Elevates Any Table

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It's time to say goodbye to boring, empty tables because tablescapes are back in style. From quiet luxury to dressy decor, there are a variety of styles you can get while dressing up your dining table. While there are numerous dishware options, don't you want to grab a set that speaks volumes? Nothing compares to the beauty of Wedgwood Queen's Ware, which was quite literally made for royalty.

Still being produced today, Wedgwood was founded in 1759 by the prominent potter, Josiah Wedgwood. He dedicated his life to experimenting with materials, colors, and designs, ultimately creating highly popular pieces. These were so sought after that prestigious or royal members throughout the world snagged these refined dishes for their own collections. 

This English creamware is the classic dishware worth looking out for, which came around in the 1760s, attracting the attention of Queen Charlotte. She loved the set so much that, with her permission, Wedgwood was coined the Potter to Her Majesty. This original collection began with 12 teacups and saucers, a slop basin, a teapot with a stand, a covered sugar dish, and a spoon. However, it wasn't long before another order was made, needing a coffee pot, coffee cups, candlesticks, and fruit baskets. If you're lucky to come across one during your thrift or estate sale shopping, don't miss out on the chance to style it as an elegant table setting or put it on display. But first, you need to know how to authenticate it.

When authenticating a piece, you need to review its markings and overall design. Over the years, Wedgwood has generally seen its fair share of markings on the bottoms of its pieces. Unlike many other potters at the time, Josiah Wedgwood added his name to the bottoms of his pieces, making it a little bit easier to differentiate. Since you're looking for around the middle of the 18th century, there are a few renditions, including Wedgwood on a single line, two Wedgwoods on top of each other, and Wedgwood & Bentley in a circle without a rim. Using early versions of a printer, many of these older items have uneven indicators, giving you extra help in determining the age of the piece.

Wedgwood dishware can be easily confused with other options on the market, especially since it comes in a cream color. However, there are some characteristics to be on the lookout for, like the scalloped edges with gold, purple, or green embellishments. Some options even feature animal or scenic designs, such as a frog, on the middle or the top center of the edge. During the time, Wedgwood specifically designed his dishes based on the client, especially if they were royal, resulting in many renditions. You can effortlessly authenticate your latest thrift find by heading over to an appraiser or dishware expert.

While a Queen's Ware dish can fetch you some money, you don't want to miss out on the opportunity to style these gorgeous pieces as part of a glamorous table setting or on display. Adding its sophisticated, neutral look is a great addition to fun tablescape ideas for every occasion, whether it is for Christmas, a birthday, or Easter. Since they are predominantly white, you can add other colors with stacked dishes, napkins, and even the table centerpiece. However, as older items, there may be a chance that they contain lead. Therefore, it's best to test each piece with a kit, such as the AAwipes lead test swab kit. If one does test positive, use it for decorative purposes only, placing a lead-free dish on top of it for actual eating.

We understand if you don't want to take the risk, so instead, keep it on display. There are many different ways to show off these dishes. A popular method people are using these days is suspending them on a gallery wall or creating a plate wall in a dining room and kitchen. Showcase them easily in a display case, china cabinet, or on a shelf, allowing everyone who walks by to catch a glimpse of their beauty. Don't forget to pair them with other items to add some color or personality.