cup & saucer

W R Midwinter Ltd 1910

Summary

Earthenware cup and saucer. Saucer and base of cup have rounded square shape. Exterior of cup aerograph-sprayed in grey. Upper surface of saucer printed in black on white ground with a roughly drawn grid, some of the squares marked with star or line patterns, others sponged with a block of colour in grey, green or mustard-yellow. Grid design referred to as 'Chequers'. For 'Chequers' side plate see 1989.201.

Display Label

Marks and Marketing Logos, hallmarks, signatures and factory stamps all play their part in creating desirable goods. From the Ancient Greeks to designer diffusion ranges producers of objects have sought out ways of finding the right market for their wares. Makers and manufacturer's marks on objects can add value and guarantee authenticity, while emblems of quality such as hallmarks affirm an object's purity and place of origin. All of these signs help to deter fakes and forgeries, testifying that their product is 'the real thing'. The status of objects is constructed and enhanced by advertising and packaging the right message. Designers' names are sold as part of the deal, appealing to our good taste and sense of style. Encouraged to develop brand loyalty and trust in a world-wide bazaar of global goods, we are increasingly represented by what we buy.