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Why are there
so many different kinds of Haviland?
Part of the answer lies in the simple fact
that the Haviland family has been producing china dinnerware for nearly
150 years, and due to overwhelming demand, manufactured literally tens
of thousands of patterns. The reason there are different
manufacturers associated with the Haviland name is basically because
the Haviland's were like any other family, and didn't always get along.
All the different manufacturers, however, can ultimately be traced back
to David Haviland who began the first porcelain factory at Limoges,
France in 1841. His sons and nephews carried on the fine
tradition he had begun, though they often disagreed with one another as
to how that was best accomplished. This is why different
factories were started, not just in France but in Germany, and
eventually, the United States as well. Competition between these
business was sometimes fierce, and while there are certainly variations
in quality, ultimately all of the products that came from these
factories are worthy of the Haviland name. A more extensive
history of Haviland dinnerware can be found
here.
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What are
"Schleiger" numbers?
Since most Haviland patterns do not have
names, a naming scheme was needed for collectors to more easily locate
the patterns they desired. Schleiger numbers refer to a system
established by Arlene Schleiger, who compiled over 800 patterns into a
four volume book set. The work of identifying all the patterns
continues to this day. Wherever pattern names given by the
manufacturer were available, we provided these first, and if
applicable, the Schleiger number second.
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What is the
difference between "Dresden" and "Dresden style?"
"Dresden" generally refers to china
produced by one of the many decorating studios that began operating in
the city with the same name, beginning in the mid 1800's. The
style they employed was unique and innovative, referred to by art
historians as "rococo revival." Many china manufacturers
throughout Germany and the rest of Europe quickly imitated the style,
and often used the term "Dresden" in the back stamp markings.
"Dresden style" refers to such pieces that were not produced in
Dresden, but employed similar patterns. A more complete history
of Dresden and
Dresden style can also be found
on this website.
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What is the
connection between the names "Meissen" and "Dresden?"
"Meissen" refers to the porcelain
produced in the Meissen Royal Manufactory, beginning in 1710, and can
usually be identified by a blue crossed-swords mark. From its
earliest years of production, however, Meissen dinnerware was sold and
distributed in the nearby city of Dresden. Because of this, many
Europeans referred to Meissen porcelain as "Dresden," and this
was the beginning of the confusion. This confusion was
complicated even further when over a hundred years later, decorating
studios began opening in Dresden and producing pieces that attained
renown in their own right. In general, porcelain that was
decorated in Dresden can be identified by the blue crown stamp.
More complete histories of Dresden
and Meissen can be found on this
website.
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