Q: I have had this pitcher for many years--a gift from a friend. It is marked "arnart 5th Ave handpainted." Can you tell me how old it is?

A: The mark on your pitcher was used by Arnart, an American importer that's been in business in New York City since 1953. The company has used several different names and marks, including some that indicated it had offices in Japan or imported goods from Japan. Many of the pieces were made to resemble Victorian and early 20th-century objects. The business is currently operating as part of Barrington House/Arnart International. Products include collectibles, figurines, vases, and other decorative objects. The mark on your pitcher was registered by Arnart in 1957.