Tuesday, February 3, 2009

M IN WREATH MARK

M IN WREATH MARK

M IN WREATH MARK

Q: This vase was given to me by a 90-year-old friend in 2000. It was given to her mother before 1920. This is the mark on the bottom. Can you tell me who made this vase?

A: This M in wreath mark was registered in Japan and the U.S. in 1911. It is usually in green, but can be found in blue, gold, or magenta. The "M" stands for Morimura, a trading company that had offices in Tokyo and New York City. Morimura Bros. Co. was founded in 1876 and eventually became Noritake Co. Ltd. The word "Nippon," the Japanese name for Japan, was used on goods imported into the United States from 1891 to 1921. After 1921 "Japan" was used. Marks used after 1915 usually include the words "Made in" and the country name.

5 comments:

Anonymous said...

I have a similar vase with the same marking but it's a different shape. Mine belonged to my mother... I believe she told me it was one of the first things she purchased when she moved to their new home on Long Island in the late 1940's (she still lives there and is 88 now). Can you tell me what these vases are worth?

Anonymous said...

It amazes me every time I read an answer about an item where the question doesn't ask for an estimate - only information about it - and you don't give an estimate of value! I think if you are going to choose something to discuss you should give an estimate of its value as a perk.

Anonymous said...

I was so glad to see the name Nippon on one of your Komments. As a fairly new person insterested in antiques, I have a set of Nippon china from my grandmother. I have been unable to find out much about it. Knowing that it probably dates from before 1921 was very interesting. The marks on the bottom of the pieces have the word Hand Painted in red, then a green crown with the name Nippon in green underneath. Under that is the word Vendome in red. I'm guessing that that is the name of the pattern. I have quite of few pieces; dinner plates, cups, saucers, bread and butter plate small salad bowl, and maybe a small soup bowl. I also have many serving pieces. Can any one tell me more about this set of china? What is it worth? Thank you!

Anonymous said...

I also have a beautiful Nippon vase in a different shape with lots of fine goldwork on the top and the scene in he middle. My aunt just gave it to me - was my grandmother's originally. My aunt is now 90 years old! I would love to have an estimate of its value. It has the exact same marking as the picture! You do a wonderful job and are a blessing to all of us collectors!

Unknown said...

I also have china left to me by my grandmother with "The marks on the bottom of the pieces have the word Hand Painted in red, then a green crown with the name Nippon in green underneath. Under that is the word Vendome in red."

Did you find out anything about this pattern?