Crown Ming Fine China Bird Of Paradise

Crown Ming Fine China: A Collector's Dream - The Bird of Paradise Pattern

The world of fine china is filled with exquisite pieces, each telling a story of artistry, heritage, and craftsmanship. Amongst the most sought-after collections is Crown Ming fine china, renowned for its elegant designs and superior quality. Within this prestigious collection, the Bird of Paradise pattern stands out as a particular favourite, captivating collectors and enthusiasts alike with its vibrant colours and intricate details. This comprehensive guide delves deep into the allure of Crown Ming's Bird of Paradise china, exploring its history, design elements, value, and how to identify authentic pieces.

The History of Crown Ming Fine China

Crown Ming china, while often mistaken for antique Chinese porcelain, is actually a product of modern manufacturing. Its name evokes the elegance and sophistication associated with the Ming Dynasty, a period known for its remarkable porcelain production. The exact origins and founding date of Crown Ming are somewhat obscured, but its emergence on the market coincided with a growing demand for high-quality, decorative china in the mid-20th century. The company focused on creating pieces that mimicked the styles and aesthetics of historic porcelain, but with modern production techniques ensuring durability and consistency. This approach allowed Crown Ming to offer luxurious china at a more accessible price point compared to genuine antique pieces.

While the precise production years for the Bird of Paradise pattern aren't definitively documented, many pieces bear markings consistent with mid-to-late 20th-century manufacturing. This places it within a period marked by a renewed appreciation for fine china and a boom in tableware manufacturing.

The Bird of Paradise Pattern: A Detailed Examination

The Crown Ming Bird of Paradise pattern is instantly recognizable for its vibrant, tropical motif. The design typically features:

Intricate Detailing:

The Birds: The Bird of Paradise itself is depicted with meticulous attention to detail. Its iridescent plumage is rendered with a range of colours, from deep blues and greens to fiery oranges and yellows. Each feather is seemingly individually painted, creating a sense of realism and movement.
Floral Accents: The birds are often surrounded by lush tropical flowers and foliage. Hibiscus, orchids, and other exotic blooms are meticulously painted, enhancing the overall feeling of a vibrant, exotic paradise.
Backgrounds: The background colours vary, but often feature subtle shades of greens, blues, or creams, creating a pleasing contrast to the vibrant birds and flowers.

Colour Palette:

The hallmark of the Bird of Paradise pattern is its use of rich, saturated colours. The vibrant hues are not merely applied but carefully blended to create a sense of depth and luminosity. This masterful application of paint is a testament to the skill of the artisans who crafted these pieces. The colours appear to shimmer and shift depending on the light, adding to their overall captivating effect.

Variations within the Pattern:

While the core design remains consistent, slight variations in the placement of birds and flowers can be found across different pieces. Some pieces might feature more prominent floral arrangements, while others emphasize the birds themselves. These subtle differences add to the uniqueness of each individual piece and contribute to the pattern's overall charm.

Identifying Authentic Crown Ming Bird of Paradise China

Unfortunately, the popularity of Crown Ming china has also led to the emergence of counterfeit pieces. Therefore, it's crucial for collectors to know how to distinguish authentic items from imitations. Key features to look for include:

Markings: Authentic Crown Ming pieces usually bear a mark or stamp on the base, often indicating the manufacturer or pattern name. However, the markings can be inconsistent, so relying solely on this is risky.
Quality of the Paint: The paint on authentic pieces is usually smooth, vibrant, and finely detailed. Fake pieces may exhibit uneven paint application, fading, or blurry lines.
Weight and Feel: Crown Ming china is known for its relatively substantial weight. Counterfeit pieces are often lighter and feel less substantial.
Shape and Form: The shape of the individual pieces, whether it be plates, cups, or saucers, should be consistent with the known shapes for this pattern. Variations might exist due to the manufacturing process, but significant differences would hint at forgery.
Condition: Check for any chips, cracks, or repairs. While minor imperfections are possible with older pieces, significant damage should raise concerns.
Research: If you're uncertain about a piece's authenticity, consult with an expert or a reputable antique dealer specializing in fine china.

The Value of Crown Ming Bird of Paradise China

The value of Crown Ming Bird of Paradise china varies significantly depending on several factors:

Rarity: Certain pieces, particularly those that are less common or part of complete dinner sets, may command higher prices.
Condition: The condition of the china has a major impact on its value. Pieces in excellent condition with no damage will be worth far more than those with chips, cracks, or other imperfections.
Completeness of Sets: Complete dinner sets typically command a premium compared to individual pieces.
Market Demand: The overall demand for Crown Ming china, and the Bird of Paradise pattern specifically, fluctuates. The value can be affected by trends in the collectibles market.

Collecting Crown Ming Bird of Paradise: Tips for Enthusiasts

For those interested in collecting Crown Ming Bird of Paradise china, here are some tips to get you started:

Start Small: Begin with a few individual pieces to build your collection gradually. This approach allows you to carefully assess your budget and preferences.
Research: Thoroughly research the pattern before making any purchases to familiarize yourself with variations and potential pitfalls.
Authenticity Verification: Always take steps to verify the authenticity of any piece you are considering purchasing.
Patience: Building a significant collection takes time and patience. Don't rush the process, and focus on finding pieces that you genuinely love.
Join Collector Communities: Connect with other Crown Ming collectors online or through collector groups. This can provide valuable insights and opportunities to find rare pieces.

Crown Ming Bird of Paradise: Beyond the Plates

The appeal of Crown Ming Bird of Paradise china goes beyond its aesthetic beauty. It embodies a sense of history, craftsmanship, and the enduring appeal of fine dining. These pieces are not merely tableware; they are works of art that can be cherished and passed down through generations. The vibrant colours and intricate details of the Bird of Paradise pattern bring a touch of exotic beauty to any table setting, making each meal a special occasion.

Its collectibility extends beyond mere monetary value. Owning these pieces allows you to engage with a tangible piece of history and the skilled artistry involved in their creation. It's about connecting to a legacy, appreciating the beauty of handcrafted items, and sharing the joy of fine china with others. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a newcomer to the world of fine china, the Crown Ming Bird of Paradise pattern is sure to captivate your imagination and add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your life. The vibrant colours, intricate details, and timeless design make it a truly remarkable addition to any collection. The enduring allure of this pattern ensures its continued place in the world of fine china for years to come. Embrace the hunt, appreciate the beauty, and enjoy the journey of collecting this iconic pattern.