How Do You Identify A Franciscan Earthenware Pattern?
Franciscan earthenware, manufactured by Gladding, McBean between 1934 and about 1980, is one of the most popular collectible dinnerware brands in the United States and Great Britain. Its appealing colorful patterns and casual shapes suit a modern home as well as they did in 1940. Some of the most popular patterns are decorated with bright hand-painted fruit or flowers, a cheerful addition to any table. Visit an antique dealer to become familiar with Franciscan earthenware. Don’t buy on a first visit but focus on and perhaps photograph as many Franciscan patterns as possible and make notes on conditions and prices. If the dealers have only a few pieces or no pieces, ask them to direct you to another dealer. Check for logos on the backs of pieces called Franciscan earthenware but do not depend on the logo to authenticate the piece. Real Franciscan earthenware may or may not have the Franciscan logo, but most patterns and shapes will have a “Made in USA” stamp and some will say “Made in C
