Spode Christmas Tree

The Spode Christmas Tree dinnerware pattern is perhaps the most well known Christmas pattern around the world. Everyone looks forward to bringing their Spode Christmas Tree Dinnerware out of storage each year! It’s just the type of thing that reminds you of Christmases of past and all the wonderful memories and meals around this very special holiday. If you don’t already own this lovely dinnerware pattern, then there is no time like the present to invest in this beautiful set that you can use for years to come.

Appearing on the market first in 1938, it is still the most sought after dish pattern during the holidays. There have been several variations of the Spode Christmas Tree pattern but they are all based on the same Victorian design. The center of the pattern is a beautiful tree decorated complete with Victorian style ornaments and a Father Christmas tree topper. Over the years, there have been various trims found on the outer rim of the dishes. The pattern is printed in the center of a beautiful creamy colored Imperialware piece. Not only is the pattern available for dinnerware sets, but you can buy the Spode Christmas Tree patternfor a variety of other tableware, gifts and collectible items. The sets are microwave and dishwasher safe as well. You know you have authentic Spode dinnerware if you see one of the stamps on the back of the plate. Don’t forget that the Spode Christmas Tree dinnerware set would make a perfect give not only for Christmas but for a wedding or even Mother’s Day!

History of Spode

The Spode pottery began around 1762 in Staffordshire, England. It was passed down through three generations of the same family which operated the same factory in Stoke-upon-Trent for almost 250 years. The company was started by Josiah Spode in 1767! He was most well known for perfecting the formula for fine bone china. In 1867 the name changed to WT Copeland and Sons but went back to being known as Spode in 1970. For a full history of Spode, visit ThePotteries.org which is a site devoted to the local history of Stoke-upon-Trent. In recent years, Spode stopped manufacturing their china in England as a way of saving money. The pieces were made overseas instead. So if you order some Spode Christmas Tree plates and find that it was not made in England, then that is why. But it does not mean that it is not authentic Spode. Just recently in November of 2008, the Spode company succumbed to the global recession and was bought by the Portmeirion Company. It is rumored now that they may be able to start making Spode in England again. The Spode name continues on so you can rest assured that you will be able to add to your collection over time!

Availability

As mentioned, there are still a couple lines of Christmas Tree that you can order online newly manufactured. But there are several lines that have been discontinued or are not as readily available. But fear not! As you might guess, you can check out eBay where there is always a large supply of Spode Christmas Tree items up for auction or sale.

Patterns

The most well known version of the Spode Christmas Tree pattern is the Green Trim. This pattern first appeared in 1962 is still being made today although there was another Green Trim line that was discontinued sometime in the past. Another popular pattern is Grove which is still available. There is also a version known as Color Glaze that you can still buy. Discontinued patterned include red/wine trim, magenta trim (circa 1948), red trim, Village (2002 – 2005), Garland (2006-2009), and the 65th anniversary pattern (2003-2004). There was even a Disney pattern done in 2003 which is also not available any more. For a really awesome guide to the Spode Christmas Tree line and all it’s markings, check out this Spode guide at Ebay.