Known for its strength, durability, and aesthetic appeal, it came about in the early 19th century in England. There is no iron in ironstone, it was named for its durability. William Turner, a potter from Staffordshire, England is credited with first creating ironstone around 1800, but he didn’t publicize the name “ironstone.” It was Charles James Mason, who was on a mission to create for the mass market a more durable and affordable alternative to porcelain and fine china, patented “Mason’s Patent Ironstone” in July of 1813. By incorporating slag into the clay, he achieved a dense, stone-like material resistant to chipping and cracking and ironstone was born.
Mason's patent was a game-changer. Soon, several manufacturers began producing their versions of ironstone, making it a popular choice for households across England and the world. Its robustness and affordability were key factors in its widespread appeal. You many see ironstone pieces marked underneath with names such as “Imperial Ironstone”, “Ironstone”, “Real Ironstone”, “Granite”, “Opaque” and “Stone China”. A large number will incorporate a crown or a royal coat of arms. Some pieces of sets were not marked at all making it difficult to identify the maker. A good resource for more information on ironstone history, identifying and dating is at this link The Potteries.
There are many ironstone producers over the centuries, but here are a few notable English ironstone makers:
· Mason’s Patent Ironstone
· J&G Meakin
· Johnson Brothers
· T&R Boote
· Wedgwood
· Wood & Sons
· Burgess & Goddard
American names:
· Knowles, Taylor & Knowles
· Homer Laughlin
· William Young & Sons (WYS)
Ironstone's versatility in design is one of its most charming features. Early pieces were often white or off-white with simple shapes. As its popularity grew, manufacturers began experimenting with colors, patterns, and glazes. Transfer printing revolutionized the way ironstone was decorated. Using engraved copper plates to transfer ink designs onto the pottery, manufacturers could mass-produce consistent and detailed designs. The result? Transferware! Beautifully decorated ironstone pieces that appealed to a broad market. I have a collection of brown and white transferware.
Other types of ironstone include “flow blue” a cobalt blue on white background often with blurred lines; “mulberry ironstone” decorated with shades of gray, brown, purple-black; and “copper lustre” decorative motifs with shiny copper bands or shiny floral & geometric patterns. Restaurantware, railroad china, and hotel china are not ironstone and a group of their own! Another blog!
By the mid-19th century, ironstone had crossed the Atlantic and become a staple in American households. American manufacturers began producing their ironstone, often imitating popular styles and patterns from England. Its affordability and durability made it a favorite among the growing middle class.
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