Collecting Spode: A Collector’s Guide
Spode stands as a cornerstone of British ceramic heritage, founded by Josiah Spode in 1770 in Stoke-on-Trent. The company revolutionised the pottery industry by perfecting underglaze blue transfer printing and developing bone china formulas that became industry standards.
The Iconic Patterns:
Spode’s most celebrated creation, the Blue Willow pattern, was introduced around 1790, combining Chinese-inspired motifs with Western design elements. This design remains the most popular underglaze blue pattern of all time. The Blue Italian pattern, introduced in the early 1800s, achieved remarkable success globally, with over 700 different shapes recorded by the 1930s. Collectors particularly value pieces depicting identifiable landmarks or sporting scenes, which command premium prices.
Identifying Your Pieces:
Authentication hinges on examining backstamps, which have evolved significantly throughout Spode’s 250-year history. Early pieces before 1833 were often unmarked or featured painted marks in red, blue, or black. From 1835-1845, the company traded as “Copeland and Garrett,” followed by Copeland-family ownership (1847-1970), when marked pieces became standard. Look for impressed date marks providing precise production months and years.
Collecting Value:
Victorian-era blue-printed pieces remain remarkably affordable, with authentic 160-year-old platters available from £30 upwards. Rarer patterns and exceptional pieces command significantly higher values. Whether you collect for heritage appreciation or investment, Spode’s combination of quality craftsmanship, historical significance, and evolving design makes it enduringly collectible.
