Dating Tirschenreuth China: A Guide To Bavaria's Delicate History

Tirschenreuth china, produced in Tirschenreuth, Bavaria, Germany, has a long and varied history dating back to 1832 when Heinrich Eichhorn first requested permission to set up a porcelain factory in the city. After some initial pushback from local authorities, the factory was completed in 1838, with Eichhorn having to subsidise the firm in its early years. The porcelain manufacturer Lorenz Hutschenreuther took over the factory in 1927, and it continued to produce Tirschenreuth china until 1995 when the factory closed. Tirschenreuth china includes a range of porcelain items such as plates, cups, saucers, bowls, and teapots, often featuring intricate designs and gold trim. The china is popular among collectors, with many pieces available for purchase through auction houses, online marketplaces, and antique dealers.

History of Tirschenreuth China

Tirschenreuth porcelain, produced in the town of Tirschenreuth in Germany, has a long and fascinating history dating back to the early 19th century. Here is a brief overview of the key moments in the story of Tirschenreuth China:

The Early Years

In 1832, Heinrich Eichhorn, a manufacturer from Schney near Lichtenfels, first requested permission to establish a porcelain factory in Tirschenreuth. However, his proposal was initially rejected by the local authorities. Undeterred, Eichhorn persisted, and his request was finally granted in 1833. Construction of the factory was completed in 1838, marking the official start of Tirschenreuth porcelain production.

Expansion and Challenges

Over the subsequent decades, the Tirschenreuth porcelain factory expanded its operations. In 1846, a second kiln was put into use. However, the company also faced challenges, such as the death of its founder, Heinrich Eichhorn, in 1880, and the collapse of sales markets during World War I.

Changes in Ownership

After Heinrich Eichhorn's death in 1880, his shares in the company were acquired by several new owners, including Edmund Tittel, Friedrich Muther, and August Bauscher. The shares changed hands a few times before the porcelain manufacturer Lorenz Hutschenreuther took over the Tirschenreuth factory in 1927.

Post-World War II and Closure

Demonstrating its resilience, the Tirschenreuth porcelain factory resumed production shortly after World War II, starting up again in September 1945. However, in the 1990s, the factory faced significant changes. In 1994, Lorenz Hutschenreuther AG separated from the Tirschenreuth porcelain factory, and by the end of 1995, the Tirschenreuth porcelain factory closed its doors for good after more than 150 years of operation.

Today, Tirschenreuth porcelain pieces, ranging from plates and cups to vases and serving dishes, are sought-after collectibles that can be found in auctions and vintage shops.

Tirschenreuth China patterns

Tirschenreuth China has a wide variety of patterns available, with some of the most popular being floral, gold trim, and multicolour designs. Here is a more detailed look at some of the patterns:

Floral Patterns

The Tirschenreuth China pattern often features floral designs, with plates, cups, and saucers adorned with colourful flowers. For example, the "Exquisite Tirschenreuth Bavaria Porcelain Tea Set" features purple flowers, while other sets feature yellow, pink, and multicoloured floral patterns.

Gold Trim

Gold trim is a common feature of Tirschenreuth China. Some pieces have simple gold edging, while others feature more intricate gold encrusted designs. The "Vintage 1920's Tirschenreuth P.T." set features gold encrusted bread and butter plates, while the "Vintage, Baronesse" tea set has a more subtle gold edge.

Multicolour

Tirschenreuth China is also known for its use of multiple colours. The "Tirschenreuth Bavaria Floral China Breakfast Set" features brown, orange, cream, and floral patterns, while other sets may include combinations of pink, green, blue, gold, and white.

Geographic Patterns

Some Tirschenreuth China patterns feature geographic motifs. For instance, the "US Zone Germany PT Tirschenreuth Fruit Pattern" features plates with fruit designs, while the "Tirschenreuth Bavaria China Carnation" pattern showcases carnations.

Ornate Designs

Tirschenreuth China is also known for its ornate and intricate designs. The "Tirschenreuth Bone China Limited Edition Collectors Plates by Karl-Hans Boese" feature intricate bird designs, while the "Tirschenreuth Bavaria 'Dresden'" set showcases a floral and covered vegetable dish pattern.

How to identify Tirschenreuth China

Tirschenreuth China is marked with a variety of different stamps, which can be used to identify the manufacturer and date of production. Here is a guide on how to identify Tirschenreuth China:

Alt Tirschenreuth mark

This mark was used from 1969 to 1995 and features the words "Alt Tirschenreuth 1838 Germany".

1838 Tirschenreuth mark

This stamp includes the words "1838 Tirschenreuth Bavaria Germany" and was used from 1969 to 1995.

PT Bavaria Tirschenreuth mark

The PT Bavaria Tirschenreuth mark has been in use since 1903.

PT Tirschenreuth mark

This mark was used from 1969 to 1995 and includes the words "PT Bavaria Tirschenreuth Germany".

Tirschenreuth 1838 Germany mark

This stamp was used from 1969 to 1995 and features the words "Tirschenreuth 1838 Germany".

Keramische Werke Zehendner mark

This mark was used from around 1940 onwards.

SMCS Porzellanfabrik GmbH & Co. Tirschenreuth mark

This stamp has been used since 1954.

Keramische Werke Zehendner Z & Co Tirschenreuth Bavaria mark

This mark was used from around 1940 onwards.

In addition to these marks, Tirschenreuth China can also be identified by its patterns and designs. Some common patterns include "Springtime", "Queensrose", "Apple Blossom", "Clifton", "The Shannon", and "Colonial". The colour of the china can also vary, with pink, green, blue, gold metallic, and white being some of the most popular options.

Where to buy Tirschenreuth China

Tirschenreuth China can be purchased from several online retailers, including Etsy and eBay. Replacements, Ltd. is another online store that offers a wide range of Tirschenreuth China patterns and designs.

Etsy has a large selection of Tirschenreuth China, including vintage and antique pieces, as well as complete tea and dinnerware sets. You can find a variety of items, such as plates, cups and saucers, teapots, serving platters, and gravy boats. Many of the items on Etsy are vintage or antique, offering a range of unique and rare pieces.

EBay also offers a diverse collection of Tirschenreuth China, with options for auctions and direct purchases. You can find both vintage and contemporary pieces on eBay, including dinnerware sets, tea cups and saucers, plates, and serving dishes.

Replacements, Ltd. is a specialised retailer of china, crystal, and silverware. They offer a range of Tirschenreuth China patterns, such as Queen's Rose Smooth #4416, Apple Blossom, Springtime, and Orchid. Replacements, Ltd. provides a convenient way to browse and purchase specific patterns and pieces to complete your china collection.

By exploring these online retailers, you can discover a vast array of Tirschenreuth China to suit your needs, whether you are a collector of antique china or simply looking to add a few unique pieces to your dinnerware collection.

Tirschenreuth China as collectibles

Tirschenreuth China is a popular collectible, with a wide range of items available on the market. The porcelain manufacturer Tirschenreuth produced a variety of tableware and decorative pieces, including plates, cups, saucers, teapots, tureens, trays, mugs, bowls, and vases. The company was based in Tirschenreuth, Bavaria, Germany, and its products are often marked with "Bavaria", "Germany", or "Made in Germany". The company's history dates back to the 19th century, and its pieces are highly sought-after by collectors worldwide.

One of the most distinctive features of Tirschenreuth China is the variety of patterns and designs they produced. Some of the more common patterns include floral motifs, gold trim, and colourful bands. For example, the "Springtime" pattern, featuring a floral design, is often found on tableware from this manufacturer. Other patterns include "Apple Blossom", "Clifton", "The Shannon", "Colonial", and "Orchid". These patterns can be found in different colours, such as cream, white, and pink.

In addition to patterns, Tirschenreuth China is also known for its shapes and forms. The company produced both traditional and unique shapes for its tableware. For instance, the "Square Floral Plate" and the "Large Oval Serving Platter" showcase the diversity of their designs. Collectors often seek out specific shapes that align with their personal preferences or their existing tableware.

When collecting Tirschenreuth China, it is important to pay attention to certain details that can enhance the value and desirability of a piece. For example, pieces with the manufacturer's mark, such as a shield and crown, are often sought-after by collectors. Additionally, the condition of the piece is crucial, with items in excellent or like-new condition typically commanding higher prices. Rare or limited-edition pieces, such as those from the 1920s or 1930s, are also highly valued by collectors.

Overall, Tirschenreuth China offers a diverse range of collectible options for enthusiasts. The variety of patterns, designs, shapes, and forms ensures that collectors can curate a unique and personalised collection. Whether one is attracted to the intricate floral patterns, the elegant gold trim, or the rarity of certain pieces, Tirschenreuth China provides an array of choices to build a cherished collection.

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