Beginner's Tips on Collecting Cornish Ware

The blue and white striped design of Cornish Ware brings to mind sun dappled farmhouse kitchens and unhurried baking days. The air filled with the warm smell of homemade cakes and pies.
Pine dressers filled with different sized blue and white bowls, plates, jars, and caddies bearing names of common and unusual ingredients is a pleasing and comforting sight.

Brief History of Cornish Ware Pottery

The blue and white stripe of Cornish Ware was meant to represent the blue sky and the white clouds of Cornwall.
Cornish Ware does not originate in Cornwall but at Church Gresley in Staffordshire made by T.G Green. The modern look of Cornish Ware appealed to the families of the 1920s.
Jars and Caddies could be ordered from the maker bearing whatever choice of ingredient was required.
TG Green experimented with different colours in the late 1950s.
In the 1960s the designer Judith Onions was brought in to give Cornish Ware a new look, the bases are wider, but they still look modern today. 
TG Green produced a special blue and navy version for Marks and Spencer in the 1990s, but these do not have a back stamp.

Gold, Red and Yellow Cornishware

TG Green brought out a buff and white version, called Cornish Gold, and a yellow and white version in the 1950s. They also experimented with a red and white design, but trouble was encountered with the red pigmentation so it was discontinued.

Collectable Cornish Ware

Jars and Caddies bearing unusual ingredient names, such as Gravy Salt or Bi Carbonate of Soda, are fetching higher prices due to their rarity. Some names may be one offs as these were ordered specifically for individuals.  Also look out for smaller jars with names of different herbs and spices, they would be lovely to make a collection of, and may be slightly more affordable, especially if purchased individually.  The red and white version is also of special interest once again due to its rarity.

The Judith Onions 1960s newly designed Ware is marked on the back and is also a fine group of Cornish Ware to collect.

About Judith Onions

I’m going to be looking out for a range Judith Onions designed for the Channel Islands, very stylish and rare.
Remember, when searching for your little gem:

• Do your home work, look on ebay, it can help you become familiar with different shapes and   styles.
• Don’t over spend, keep to a budget.
• Check carefully for damage, I personally never buy any item that is cracked or chipped, no  matter how appealling it is.
• Look out for fakes.
• Check your back stamps so you know what date your piece come from.

Enjoy collecting your wares, Happy Crocking!