Wedgwood Jasper Ware

Someone in your family has a covered box or pin tray that looks like it is made of clay, but it is not shiny like regular china. This is probably jasper ware, a clay body that comes in 12 or 14 colors and is decorated with laurel swags, ivy vines, naked babies and strange figures going to a toga party. Or they are sitting around playing crazy harps, or some other inexplicable activity. Welcome to the world of Greek mythology. The naked babies are putti, and the adults are characters out of myths or examples of Ancient Greek life. The Greek costumes they wear, or half-wear, identify Wedgwood jasper ware as surely as the makers mark on the bottom of the item.

Why should you care? Well, Wedgwood has been making these vases, covered boxes, pin trays, ornaments and plaques for over two hundred years, and are still selling them. The larger pieces hold their value well. Maybe if you show some interest, these easily identifiable porcelain collectibles will come your way. Then, you can either learn about the manufacturer and mythology, and enjoy your inheritance, or you can convert these items into money by selling them.