Clear-bottomed mug allowed no surprises
Q. Enclosed is a photo of a heavy mug that has a bronze finish and a clear glass bottom. It stands over 4 inches tall and about 4 inches in diameter. Around the base is the word "Manning," along with a word I can't read. There is also the number "1164." I hope this is enough information to help you identify the history of my mug. I would also like to know if it has any value.
A. The mystery word is probably "Bowman." Your mug was made by the Manning Bowman Company. They have been located in Meriden, Conn., since 1872. It was a family-owned business that produced silver-plated and non-plated objects that included teapots, mugs, coffee pots, samovars, chrome ware and flatware. Their chrome Art Deco teapots and coffee makers are prized among collectors. The number "1164" is a design number.
Clear glass bottoms on mugs were first seen in the 1800s. They prevented a drinker from finding any surprises at the bottom of the mug. A person drinking could see if there was anything at the bottom, especially when the mug was tipped up.
Your mug was made around the mid-1900s and would probably be worth $25 to $50.
Q. This mark is on the back of a small porcelain platter that belonged to my grandmother. She would be in her hundreds now, so it must be old. The plate is oval and decorated with pink roses, green leaves and brown thorny branches. The edge is scalloped and trimmed with gold.
I am very curious about the origin of my plate and will appreciate any information you might provide.
A. Rosenthal China Company made your platter. They have been located in Selb, Bavaria, Germany, from 1879 to the present. Phillip Rosenthal began by purchasing white porcelain from Hutschenreuther factory. It was then decorated and sold door to door. In 1879, Rosenthal opened his own factory that produced high-quality porcelain that was soon recognized for the outstanding workmanship and designs. In the mid 1900s, much of their dinnerware was designed by both American and European designers.
"Versailles" is the name of the pattern. Your platter was made around 1900 and would probably be worth $35 to $45.
• Address your questions to Anne McCollam, P.O. Box 247, Notre Dame, IN 46556. Items of a general interest will be answered in this column. Due to the volume of inquiries, she cannot answer individual letters.
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