How to Identify Antique Ceramic Patterns

Examine the pattern closely. Look for the type of objects used in the pattern, such as flowers, animals or people. These items can serve as clues as to the type and origin of the pattern. Educate yourself in the construction methods of antique ceramics from different regions and areas. There are differences between ceramics, stoneware, and earthenware, including the composition of the paste, the method of imprinting the maker's mark, and the type of glaze used, all of which can help identify where the antique came from. Knowing where the pattern originated can help you identify it accurately.

Turn the piece upside down. Locate the maker's mark on the underside of the piece. There are literally hundreds of maker's marks on the market, so it is virtually impossible to know each by memory. English and European marks tend to be kite-shaped, and feature the name of the manufacturer and the approximate date the piece was created. If the piece is Asian the structure of the mark can indicate if it is Chinese or Japanese. Chinese marks tend to be in ordered rows with an even number of characters. Irregular rows or odd numbers of characters indicate Japanese origin. Research any names or numbers you are unfamiliar with.

Examine the area around the maker's mark. Most ceramic patterns were patented in the 19th century, and the name of the pattern was printed alongside the maker's mark, although different manufacturers used different spellings for the same name. For example, the china pattern "Pekin" is also printed as "Peking," "Pek-in," or "Pek-ing," even though all four refer to patterns that relate to the city of Peking. Collector's attempting to identify pieces without these marks may need the help of an experienced appraiser to identify the pattern.