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Ceramics/Ladies face makers mark

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Expert: Leisha Hiester - 8/30/2009


Question

Ladies ceramic makers
I could only send one photo so here is the second photo of the back of the piece withe makers mark.  It looks like is is stamped F X 3T with something underneath like G W

Thank you.

Answer
Tess,
Again this appears from the photo to be chalkware. Chalkware is a term that refers to decorative items made out of gypsum, which were very popular from the late 18th century through the 1930s. Gypsum is a mineral compound also called sulphate of lime, which is usually found underground near limestone deposits. Raw gypsum is a pure white crystal called alabaster. When gypsum is heated, the resulting white powder is called burnt gypsum, also known as Plaster of Paris for the large gypsum deposit at Montmartre in Paris. Ordinary schoolroom chalk is also a form of burnt gypsum. Gypsum is easily cast into sculptures and decoration for frames, but is quite soft and breaks easily.

I'm not as familiar with chalkware marks. It appears the mark has a crown (often seen on pottery also) with a G.W. Here's a site that may be helpful:

http://www.mygrannysatticantiques.com/index.html

Leisha
    Questioner's Rating
    Rating(1-10)Knowledgeability = 10Clarity of Response = 10Politeness = 10
    CommentThank you for all of your help, it has been baffling me for weeks. I can now do more research.


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Leisha Hiester

Expertise

Inquiries about ceramics, pottery, clay and art in general.

Experience

21 years in ceramics and clay, teaching, producing and selling.

Education/Credentials
College, courses, teacher and worked in production studios.

Past/Present Clients
Private collections

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