Q: I recently inherited some very old Davenport china. I haven’t had the time to look through it all, but I am certain it is a full dinner set. I have searched the Internet but I can’t find this particular design or trademark anywhere, although similar items called “Imari” come up. Any information would be greatly appreciated.

A: Although your china is marked “Davenport” and the mark looks something like the Davenport China anchor mark, it was not made by that company. It was made by Sampson Bridgwood & Son at its Anchor Pottery in Longton, Staffordshire, England. “Davenport,” in this case, is the pattern name. The company was established in about 1795. It began making bone china in 1853. China exported to the United States had to be marked with the country of origin after 1891, so most English manufacturers added the word “England” to their marks. “English Make” is a strange term we haven’t seen before. Your china was probably made between 1853 and 1891. In 1985 Sampson Bridgwood & Son became part of Churchill Hotelware, which is now in business as Churchill China Ltd.

davenport china sampson brigwood and son

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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