Thrift Store Tuesday

One of the best things about blogging is that there are no deadlines and no requirements for length or research proficiency. You can post something quickly or spend hours putting it together.

Today is a quick post to share something that has delighted me beyond words – finding something unexpected and then finding out that it is more than what I thought it was. I’ll have better pictures and more details later, but here’s the fun discovery revealed!

Last week fellow blogger Suzassippi posted about a lovely vintage platter that was a gift to her many years ago. Despite exhaustive research, she had not found a name for the pattern (although I hope she will). Her only clue is that it is stamped “Made in Occupied Japan”. The pattern was beautiful and I was reminded of similar pieces that I’ve collected and the ones I’ve seen in stores. The delicate eggshell color and floral patterns are delightful and work together to create serving pieces worthy of a special meal.

While doing a little thrift store browsing and shopping I discovered a small collection of china that reminded me of that piece. The platter, oval serving bowl, single cup, three dinner plates, and two bread and butter plates were only $10. After walking through the store I came back through and picked these up. Too pretty and too cheap to pass up. The first surprise was when they rang it up it was on sale – only $5! Yes – F-I-V-E! I felt like I had stolen it as I walked out the door.

So, imagine my surprise when I looked at Replacements.com and after a little search discovered that this is Homer Laughlin Eggshell Nautilus and is worth a lot more. The vegetable bowl is on sale right now for $79.99, so I really do feel I came home with a bargain. Now, isn’t that fun?

Quick research has led me to a fascinating history of the Homer Laughlin company and the mysterious Eggshell line of china produced from 1937 until the 1950’s. I’m absolutely enchanted with this pattern and its sweet flowers accented by the red trim around the rim. There is embossing around the edges of the platter and bowl, giving them a touch of quiet elegance.

I have to wonder about the owner(s) of these pieces and its history – were there more pieces, was it a wedding pattern or bought as a grocery store premium, what occasions was it used for, was it passed down through generations until it was donated, and on and on. I’ll never know, but I’m glad it is with me now.

I’ll have more to share when I sort out the details of this vintage pattern.