Vintage Franciscan China Dessert Plates

Franciscan introduced their Fine China line in 1942. This was marketed as Franciscan Masterpiece China after 1958 and production continued in the United States until 1978. The Franciscan name appeared on fine china from around the world after that time, but will bear a backstamp indicating the country in which it was produced.

The 1950's saw a departure from the traditional look of the original china patterns of the 1930's and 1940's.  One of the new patterns was Starburst. Starburst would prove a radical departure from prior tradition and used an irregular shape and abstract radiant stars resulting in a very modern earthenware pattern. Starburst and other patterns of that era have become highly collectible, due to the shape and design of the 1950's.

In 1954 designer George James created an artware line for Franciscan called Contours. It used fine china forms, two tone colors and fluid, graceful shapes to create bowls, covered dishes, trays, candlesticks and more.

Earthenware and casual dinnerware became very popular in the 60's and 70's and Franciscan followed suit by creating some patterns with the prevalent color schemes of gold, and olive green.  Patterns of this time are Madeira, and Picnic.

If you are looking to give vintage Franciscan dinnerware as a gift, finding rare pieces or patterns, or full sets of plates is a good way to start.  Dessert plates make a wonderful gift as they can be used for entertaining friends and family, but you can also look for the rest of the dinnerware, such as bowls, full place settings, serving pieces, salt and pepper shakers, and dinner plates.

Tea cups and saucers go well with dessert plates.  If you do some research on Franciscan China, you will find distinct periods of time for production of various patterns, and the marks to look for on the dinnerware.  When shopping on Ebay, feel free to ask questions of the sellers to be comfortable with what you are buying. 

I have included a wonderful reference book below to help you discern the patterns and value of the various pieces to make sure you are getting a good price.  And you can click through the links provided for more details and pictures of each item.

Collecting Antiques: Tea Cups and Saucers

Collecting Antiques: Teapots