I picked up (or rather, I bargained aggressively) for this dainty vintage cup, saucer and plate set in an op shop yesterday. I swear I have never touched such fine china. It is remarkably light. After giving it a much needed wash, the colours lit up and the gold trimming shone gloriously. What a little clean can reveal!
I'm very fond of it already and it's only come to live with me less than twenty four hours ago. It has definitely been used quite a bit; the gold under the cup handle looks rather worn. Other than a few obvious worn marks, the whole set is in excellent condition. There is a definite 'vibe' that this cup has been loved. I can feel it. And I love this feeling. I'm already wondering about it's history; I wish it could speak to me.
Now whilst I have a preference for all things 'made in England', this piece was infact 'made in Australia'. I'm quite intrigued. The only words the underside reveal are 'St. Kilda, Fine china, Australia'. I have no idea about this chinaware, so if you do; please, do tell.
I had no intention of buying this little coffee cup and saucer, but this piece cost less than a cup of coffee to drink! At $3 I grabbed it.
I visited six op shops in all and I'm told that vintage cups fly out the door virtually the minute they come in. They refused to take my name and phone number because they simply have no trouble moving the stock. Oh dear.
My day saw me come home with the cups you see and with three vintage saucers and one very old vintage looking plate. The photo below does no justice to this charming 'green' saucer. It's a Foley bone china and I particularly like this one.
Mariana, I have never heard of St Kilda Fine China. I just checked out Ebay though, and there are a couple of beautiful cups, saucer and plates sets for sale. I particularly like the one with snowdrops. It is $30.
ReplyDeleteI'll have to acquaint myself with the Ebay process Glenda. Afraid I'm very much an old-fashioned gal. You know the kind - face to face on the spot buying. I suspect my dearly departed Dad's philosophy has a lot to do with it. He was very much a 'cash only' person. Hell - a cheque was too much trouble and he was sooo very suspicious unless transactions were cash. Oh, the old ways.
DeleteThe St Kilda set is so delicate it's unbelievable. Love it.
Get one of your kids to show you. Its dead easy. You will be able to find some beautiful items there - so much choice. It would be cool to collect St Kilda Fine China. I would love to know the history.
DeleteWill do; I fear it's about time.
DeleteI just bought an amazing 22ct gilded coffee set that's St Kilda Fine China. Can find absolutely no history or information from anywhere about the company, but it's the most beautiful, garish thing I've ever owned. Am in love!
ReplyDeleteOh wow - an entire set! That sounds amazing Kirsten. I'm very interested to hear you can't find anything out about the company; I'm even more curious now. All I know is the few people I've talked to rave about the 'Shelley' brand as being the finest bone china you can buy. I think I disagree, because I bought a Shelley cup last week and it is not as light or as fine as my St Kilda Cup and saucer. And yes I well relate - I'm in love too! Actually crazy in love - but don't think I'll tell my Hubby that.
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