Antique Wedgwood china is loved by millions of collectors and admirers worldwide. Recently LoveToKnow had the unique opportunity to chat with Jorge Perez, National Spokesperson of Wedgwood Royal Doulton USA about the long running popularity of this beautiful china.
Interview with Jorge Perez, Wedgwood Royal Doulton USA: History of Wedgwood China
LTK: First of all, what is the correct spelling of Wedgwood?
Jorge Perez: Thanks for asking! It is like nails on a chalkboard for us! For the record, there is no E after the G. It's WEDGWOOD.
LTK: It seems Wedgwood has been around a long time. Exactly when did the company begin making china?
Jorge Perez: Josiah Wedgwood founded the factory in 1759.
LTK: What is the very first china pattern that Wedgwood released?
Jorge Perez: Queen's Ware (Queensware). Bone china wasn't introduced until 1812. Chinese Dragons was the first fine bone china pattern for Wedgwood.
LTK: Of all the patterns that have been released in the past 250 years, which is the most popular antique Wedgwood pattern?
Jorge Perez: In dinnerware, to date it is still Queensware. In overall pattern, nothing beats our classic Wedgwood Blue and White Jasperware!
LTK: What sets Wedgwood apart from other china? Why is it so collectible after all these decades?
Jorge Perez: While there are so many things like Jasperware and Queensware that have always set us apart, it has to be the quality of our china that at the end of the day really sets us apart from all the others. We have the whitest whites in the industry and our translucency clearly demonstrates our superb ingredients. We haven't been in business for 250 years for nothing!
Collecting and Using Antique Wedgwood China
LTK: Is there such a thing as a faked Wedgwood antique?
Jorge Perez: Great question! There have been many attempts over the years by others to duplicate our famed Jasperware, and while they themselves are now collectible, none ever came close to ours. Josiah Wedgwood spent countless hours experimenting with thousands of trials before coming up with the final formula for his famous Jasperware.
LTK: How can a novice collector identify fakes?
Jorge Perez: All Wedgwood is marked. Always look for the Wedgwood Back Stamp to make sure that you have the real thing. There have been many different Back Stamps over the years, so do your research and you'll even be able to date your piece!
Caring for Vintage Wedgwood
LTK: What is the best way to care for Wedgwood?Jorge Perez: All of our dinnerware is dishwasher safe (use the fine china cycle and mild detergents). Our Jasperware is surprisingly strong. Use warm soapy water and a sponge. You can also use a mild brush to get into all the relief detail.
LTK: Is there anything else you might like to add?
Jorge Perez: Use your Wedgwood everyday! Whether at breakfast, or a picnic, buffet, or even a big holiday meal, make sure to enjoy our products everyday!
LoveToKnow would like to extend its gratitude to Jorge Perez for taking the time for this interview. It was a special honor to have him answer LoveToKnow readers' questions about antique Wedgwood china.Wedgwood, like any antique china, is a piece of history that is worth protecting for future generations. At the same time it is important that you enjoy the beauty of your antique dishes. Using them gently rather than keeping them locked away will enrich your life everyday.
