Aynsley China Vase

Find Out Everything You Need to Know Before Bringing Home These Iconic Vases

Aynsley China vases have been cherished in homes around the world for over 225 years. With their exquisite craftsmanship, hand-painted floral designs, and varied shapes and sizes, Aynsley vases make timeless additions to any décor.

If you’re considering buying an Aynsley vase to display fresh flowers or as an antique collectible, this extensive guide will walk you through how to identify authentic Aynsley pieces, popular designs and patterns, where to shop, care and cleaning tips, resale value, and much more. Let’s dive in!

A Brief History of Aynsley China

To understand what makes Aynsley vases so special, it helps to know the story behind this iconic brand. Aynsley China was founded in England in 1775 by John Aynsley. The company specialized in bone china dinnerware and decorative items hand-painted with beautiful floral patterns.

Aynsley quickly gained acclaim for exceptional quality and artistry. By the 1800s, they were honored with multiple royal warrants as the official china supplier to Queen Victoria, the Prince of Wales, and other royalty.

Over the centuries, Aynsley has produced countless vase designs to complement their dinnerware. From dainty miniature vases to grand majestic pieces, Aynsley’s legacy of master artistry lives on in their vases today.

How to Identify an Authentic Aynsley Vase

With such a long history, there are many genuine antique Aynsley vases to be found. However, it’s also important to beware of potential fakes. Here are tips for identifying authenticity:

• Examine the bottom or base of the vase – there should be markings that say “Aynsley England” along with pattern names or codes. This is key for verification.
• Look for a printed red backstamp or paper label – this trademark stamp has been used since circa 1860.
• Check for high quality craftsmanship – including thin, translucent porcelain and finely painted designs. Fakes tend to have poorly painted patterns.
• Inspect any gilding for signs of rubbing or wearing off – this can help date the vase.
• Look for clean unmarked rims – authentic Aynsley vases have smooth finished rims, free of chips or roughness.

Following these tips will help ensure you’re purchasing a genuine Aynsley vase you can treasure for years to come.

Popular Designs and Patterns

One of the joys of collecting Aynsley is the vast array of patterns and floral motifs to choose from. Here are some of the most popular design styles to look for:

Wild Tudor Rose – Introduced in 1920, this elegant design features shapely blossoms, leaves, and stems in vibrant hues. It captures the natural beauty of English wild “dog roses”.

Orchard Gold – Launched in 1955, this pattern is adorned with golden fruit including ornately detailed pears, apples, plums, cherries, and branches.

Dragonfly – Dating back to the 1930s, this delicate pattern depicts colorful dragonflies alight on curling vines and blossoms. It conjures up lazy summer days.

Paradise – Introduced in 1937, this exotic pattern is alive with Ceylon birds, tropical foliage, and blooms like orchids and magnolias.

Heritage – Drawing inspiration from 18th century Imari ware, Heritage features Oriental scenes with pagodas, bridges, birds, and floral sprigs.

Beyond these most popular patterns, you’ll also find captivating seasonal motifs, Art Deco styles, and antique designs to suit any décor.

Where to Buy New and Vintage Aynsley Vases

Once you fall in love with Aynsley’s timeless beauty, you’ll want to know the best places to start your collection. Here are top options for buying new or vintage Aynsley vases:

• Replacements Ltd. – The premier retailer for new and vintage china. They have an extensive Aynsley selection online and at their 200,000 sq. foot North Carolina warehouse.
• Etsy – Search Etsy shops for vintage and antique Aynsley vases from various sellers. Ensure authenticity before purchasing.
• eBay – Similar to Etsy, you can potentially find unique Aynsley vases via eBay auctions and listings. Verify seller reliability and authenticity.
• Local antique shops – Look for reputable antique shops in your area that may offer vintage Aynsley pieces at reasonable prices.
• Estate sales – Keep an eye out for estate sales in upscale neighborhoods, where you may uncover treasured Aynsley items.
• UK sites – Check UK-based online antique sites for wider selections of authentic Aynsley vases to ship worldwide.

With a bit of hunting, you can find beautiful Aynsley vases to enhance your home at various price points.

Are Aynsley Vases Considered Collectible?

For avid antiques collectors, Aynsley China elicits great enthusiasm. The exceptional artistry and long heritage make Aynsley vases highly collectible. Certain styles and patterns are more rare and valuable, driving up demand among serious collectors.

Some of the most prized Aynsley vases for collectors include:

• Limited edition commemorative vases gifted to royalty
• Unique vases specially commissioned for historic events or displays
• Early 19th century hand-painted and gilded vases
• Vases featuring rare patterns like Pagoda or Partridge
• Miniature vases and hard to find small sizes
• Art Deco era vases from 1920-1940s
• Pairs or sets of vases in flawless condition

Finding these special vintage vases at auction or estate sales can be the crown jewels for collectors aiming to build an impressive Aynsley assortment.

Aynsley Vase Price Guide

So what can you expect to budget when investing in an Aynsley vase? Pricing varies significantly based on size, design, age, condition, and rarity. Some guidelines on Aynsley value ranges:

• Small 4-6 inch vases – $50 to $150
• Standard 8-12 inch vases – $100 to $300
• Large 12-18 inch vases – $200 to $600
• Antique pre-1920 vases – $300 to $1,000
• Rare or custom pieces – $1,000 to $5,000+

Fine condition, popular patterns, and older pieces fetch the highest resale prices. But don’t be intimidated by those premium price tags. Many beautiful Aynsley vases can be found for under $100, making them an attainable dream find at antique shops or estate sales.

Materials and Manufacturing Process

Part of what makes Aynsley vases so prized is the master craftsmanship that goes into their creation. Aynsley artisans formulate and hand-finish their vases to the highest standards.

Aynsley China vases are made from fine bone china comprised of bone ash, china stone, and china clay. This delicate porcelain becomes translucent and highly vitrified when fired at extremely high kiln temperatures up to 1400°C.

The Aynsley factory applies an initial biscuit firing, then glazes the vases by hand. Skilled artists hand-paint the decorative patterns and designs using specialized pigments. The finishing glaze firing fixes these ornate motifs forever into the china.

It is this meticulous hand-crafting that results in Aynsley’s signature luminous, high-sheen finish so admired today.

Caring for Your Aynsley Treasures

Of course, once you acquire your long-coveted Aynsley vases, you’ll want to preserve their beauty. Follow these care tips:

• Use a soft dry cloth to gently dust. Avoid harsh cleaners.
• Wash by hand with warm water and mild detergent. Never put in the dishwasher.
• Rinse and dry thoroughly after washing to prevent water spots.
• Store vases safely away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.
• Place felt pad or soft cloth between vases when stacking to prevent rubbing.
• Avoid drastic temperature changes which can cause cracking or crazing.
• Inspect regularly for any hairline cracks, chipping, or gilding wear. Professional restoration may be possible for damages.

With proper care, your Aynsley vase can stay pristine and last for generations as a family heirloom. The time and joy these special pieces add to your life makes them worth the effort.

Choosing the Perfect Aynsley Vase

Are you ready to begin your own Aynsley collection? Here are some top tips for choosing the ideal vase:

Consider your style – Select patterns and colors that appeal to your personal taste and home décor. Aynsley offers diverse motifs ranging from traditional floral to modern sleek.

Mind the size – Measure where you want to display your vase to find the right proportions. A towering vase won’t fit on a mantel, while a miniature one will get lost on a dining table.

Examine condition – Look for quality craftsmanship and minimal wear when purchasing, especially for collectible antique pieces. Well-kept vases bring joy for generations.

Confirm authenticity – Review the authenticity tips outlined earlier. Buying from reputable sellers ensures your investment is genuine.

Establish your budget – With the price guide above, decide what you can spend to acquire the Aynsley vase of your dreams!

The hunt for that perfect showstopping vase adds to the thrill of building your collection. Before you know it, you’ll be displaying gorgeous floral bouquets in your prized Aynsley finds.

Bring a Touch of Timeless Beauty Into Your Home

For over two centuries, Aynsley China has crafted heirloom quality vases to enrich homes worldwide. With their stunning hand-painted designs, delicate translucence, and legendary heritage, Aynsley vases are made to be cherished.

Hopefully this extensive buyer’s guide has given you all the details you need to start your own Aynsley vase collection with confidence. From identifying authentic pieces to caring for your vases, you now have the knowledge to build a collection full of beauty and meaning that can be passed down for generations.

Soon you’ll be brightening your home with fresh flowers displayed in your ideal Aynsley treasure. Let the hunt begin for these little works of art that have brought joy to so many through the centuries!