1887 Royal Worcester Bamboo: Unlocking The Secrets Of An Antique Treasure

Nestled in the heart of England's ceramic heritage, Royal Worcester has long been a name synonymous with quality and elegance in fine china and porcelain. Among its myriad of creations, the 1887 Royal Worcester Bamboo series stands out as an exquisite example of Victorian-era artistry. This article delves into the intricate world of this antique treasure, exploring its history, design, and what makes it such a prized collectible today.

The History of Royal Worcester

Royal Worcester's journey began in 1751 when Dr. John Wall established the factory. Over time, it evolved to become one of the leading producers of English porcelain. The 19th century saw Royal Worcester embracing a diverse range of styles, from ornate Victorian designs to the more restrained neoclassical patterns.

<div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=Royal Worcester History" alt="Royal Worcester Factory" width="300"></div>

Royal Worcester and The Bamboo Design

In 1887, Royal Worcester introduced the Bamboo pattern, celebrating Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee. This design featured:

• Bamboo motifs with leaves and flowers.
• Ornate gold gilding enhancing the bamboo borders.
• Hand-painted landscapes, often of Japanese influence, reflecting the era's fascination with Eastern culture.

The Making of Bamboo Pattern Porcelain

The creation of the 1887 Royal Worcester Bamboo pieces was a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship of the era:

1. Clay Preparation: The porcelain clay was sourced and meticulously prepared.

2. Molding and Shaping: Skilled artisans shaped the clay into various forms like plates, cups, and vases.

3. Firing: Multiple firings were needed to achieve the desired strength and color.

4. Decoration: Artists painted each piece by hand, often incorporating scenes from nature or Japanese art.

5. Gilding: The final touch was the application of gold leaf, which was then fired again for a lasting finish.

<div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=Royal Worcester Bamboo Design Process" alt="Bamboo Design Process" width="300"></div>

Signature and Dating the Pieces

Each piece from the 1887 Royal Worcester Bamboo series was signed by its artist, often including:

• The artist’s monogram or signature.
• A date code: For instance, "1887" indicated the year of creation.
• The Royal Worcester stamp, which evolved over the years.

Understanding these signatures is crucial for collectors to authenticate and date their acquisitions.

The Appeal of 1887 Royal Worcester Bamboo

The allure of the Bamboo series lies in:

• Its Rarity: Not all pieces survived the passage of time or were produced in large quantities.
• Craftsmanship: Each piece reflects the high level of skill involved in its creation.
• Aesthetic Value: The combination of Victorian charm with Japanese influence results in timeless elegance.

<div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=Antique Royal Worcester Bamboo" alt="Antique Royal Worcester Bamboo" width="300"></div>

Collecting and Valuing Royal Worcester Bamboo

Collectors are drawn to the Bamboo series for several reasons:

• Historical Significance: Owning a piece from such a historically rich period.
• Investment Potential: Fine examples can appreciate in value over time.
• Personal Enjoyment: The aesthetic pleasure of having art in daily use.

When valuing these pieces:

• Condition: Is paramount; items in perfect condition command higher prices.
• Provenance: Pieces with documented history often fetch more.
• Signature: A known artist’s signature can significantly increase value.

Care and Preservation

To preserve these treasures:

<p class="pro-note">🔍 Note: Avoid direct sunlight to prevent fading of gold gilding.</p>

• Handling: Use gloves to avoid oils from hands damaging the surface.
• Cleaning: Use a soft cloth and mild soap; avoid abrasive cleaners.
• Storage: Keep pieces in a controlled environment to minimize temperature and humidity changes.

<div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=Royal Worcester Care" alt="Care of Royal Worcester" width="300"></div>

Where to Find 1887 Royal Worcester Bamboo

Finding these antiques can be challenging but rewarding:

• Antique Shops: Visit reputable dealers specializing in ceramics.
• Auctions: High-end auction houses often list rare pieces.
• Online Platforms: Websites like eBay or specialized forums can be useful.
• Antique Fairs: These events are goldmines for collectors looking to expand their collections.

Conclusion

The 1887 Royal Worcester Bamboo series encapsulates a moment in history where the East meets West, tradition meets innovation, and art meets function. Its appeal lies not just in its beauty but in the stories of craftsmanship and culture it holds. Whether for investment, aesthetic pleasure, or historical interest, this collection continues to captivate collectors and enthusiasts alike.

  

    

      

        
What makes the 1887 Royal Worcester Bamboo so special?
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The series combines Victorian design with Japanese motifs, reflecting the era's fascination with Eastern culture. Its rarity and detailed hand-painted scenes make it highly collectible.
      
    
    

      

        
How can I identify a genuine piece of 1887 Royal Worcester Bamboo?
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Look for the artist’s signature, the date code, and the Royal Worcester stamp. Authenticity also comes from the craftsmanship, quality of materials, and the detailed patterns typical of the Bamboo series.
      
    
    

      

        
Are there any tips for caring for my Royal Worcester Bamboo pieces?
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Handle with care, avoid direct sunlight, use gentle cleaning methods, and store in a controlled environment to preserve the gold gilding and delicate paintwork.