When ironstone was developed in England at the very beginning of the 19th century. The aim was to create a durable material for the kitchen and table that could stand up to hard use. This is why it still exists today. Unlike fancy porcelain kept carefully in glass-front cabinets and only brought out on special occasions, which survives because it wasn't used, any piece of Ironstone that you find today is a survivor. It's earned it's keep, often been thrown around and beat up to hell, and somehow just keeps going.
On old Ironstone you'll often find crazing, those find crackly patterns in the glaze, discoloration, and dings, and we see them as badges of honor. I wonder how many washes it took to develop that pattern, or how many drops earned that chip. The pieces kept being used as they gained a kind of patina, so personality was able to accumulate over time.
We recently brought in over 150 pieces of antique 19th century Ironstone, including dozens of cups and platters, that are perfect for adding character to your kitchen. Pile apples in a bowl, keep teaspoons in a cup, or serve dinner for a crowd on a large platter that has been offering friends a meal for over a century.
Explore the Ironstone
