Minton Pate-sur-Pate Demitasse Cup & Saucer, Pattern H5103: Sold for £240
Minton Pottery, established in 1793 in Stoke-on-Trent, is a name that echoes through the world of ceramics. Though the company is no longer in production, its wares continue to make appearances at auctions and in antiques shops across the country.
If you’ve come across a piece of Minton Pottery and wondered, what is my Minton Pottery worth?, you’re not alone. Let’s dive into the rich history of Minton and discover what factors determine the value of these exquisite pieces.
What Makes Minton Pottery Worth So Much?
Minton Pottery was renowned for its innovative designs and high-quality craftsmanship. Over the centuries it was in operation, the brand contributed significantly to the ceramics industry. Minton’s revival of bone china and its introduction of Majolica-style wares, originally from Italy, cemented its place in pottery history. Today, certain collections remain highly coveted by collectors.
Parian Ware
John Bell for Minton Pottery, two white and gilded Parian pawn chess pieces, circa 1851: Sold for £280
Minton’s Parian ware is one of its most celebrated contributions to ceramics. Created to mimic the look of marble, Parian ware was used for producing busts, vases, and decorative figures. This type of ceramic body was developed in the mid-19th century and named after Parsos, the Greek island renowned for its white Parian marble buildings.
John Bell for Minton Pottery, Parian Group of Una & The Lion: Sold for £1,500, Dreweatts 1759
Minton was one of the leading producers of the ware, but many other popular manufacturers utilised this technique including Copeland and Wedgwood.
John Bell for Minton Pottery, a Parian Ware Figure Group of ‘Ariadne and the Panther’: Sold for £340, Sworders
Tiles
A.W.N Pugin for Minton Pottery, Group of 9 Gothic Revival Tiles c1860, Sold for £1,300 by Lyon & Turnbull
Minton Pottery tiles are often found in homes and public buildings. Under Herbert Minton’s leadership, the company produced encaustic tiles, which were used in high-profile locations like the US Capitol and St. George’s Hall.
Three Minton Pottery 19th Century Encaustic Majolica Border Tiles, Sold for £95, Fieldings Auctioneers
Encaustic tiles are especially prized, as they are made with multiple colours of clay and a lead glaze, making them more intricate and valuable.
A Victorian Minton Pottery hand painted tile ‘Idleness’: Sold for £60
Majolica
A Minton Majolica Centrepiece: Sold for £420
Herbert Minton was always looking to push the boundaries of ceramics, and his collaboration with French chemist Léon Arnoux resulted in the creation of Majolica—a vibrant earthenware style with rich colours that caught the eye of the middle class. These pieces remain highly collectible today.
A Minton Majolica Wall Sconce: Sold for £1,800
With their eye-catching designs and unique forms, Majolica pieces from Minton are still highly sought after by collectors, particularly larger items and those created for international exhibitions.
Minton Majolica Figure of a Peacock on a Rock (Miniature): Sold for £110
Nowadays, there is a real affection for the grand creations of the Victorian era, hence why Majolica pieces still remain popular amongst collectors. The enticement of Majolica pieces also lies in their uniqueness with many ‘fit for purpose’ items seen, such as a box intended for holding sardines having a sardine as its finial.
Pate-sur-Pate
Minton Pate-Sur-Pate Prototype Lidded Pot of Lozenge Form: Sold for £500
Pate-sur-Pate, a technique originally from China and later adopted by Minton, is one of the most intricate forms of pottery. This technique involves layering slip onto a clay body to create detailed images, often taking weeks or even months to complete. Because of the skill required to master it, Pate-sur-Pate pieces are highly prized.
Minton Pate-sur-Pate Two Handled Vase & Covers: Sold for £14,000
It was not an easy skill to acquire, so true masters of the technique were held in very high regard with their pieces commanding great value. Today, they are considered highly collectible.
See more examples of Minton Pottery at AuctionHow to Determine Your Minton Pottery Worth
So, what’s your Minton Pottery worth? The price is influenced by several key factors:
- Popularity: Pieces in well-known patterns or from limited editions are generally more valuable.
- Rarity: Older and prototype pieces are usually worth more due to their scarcity.
- Condition: The better the condition, the higher the value. Well-preserved items are prized.
- Maker’s Mark: Certain potters, like Marc Louis Solon, increase the value of pieces bearing their signature (see our Pottery Marking Guide below to see if you have any marked pieces of notability).
It’s also worth noting that complete sets, particularly for bone china or tile collections, are often valued higher than individual pieces due to their completeness and rarity.
Minton Pottery Marking GuideDo You Have Minton Pottery to Sell?
If you’re wondering, what is my Minton Pottery worth? or thinking about selling, it’s always a good idea to have an expert evaluate your pieces. Our ceramic valuers can help you determine the value of your Minton pottery, whether you’re looking to sell at auction or simply want to know more about your collection.
We offer free valuation days every Tuesday at our Silverdale saleroom, where you can book an appointment online or reach us via email at enquiries@potteriesauctions.com. You can even send photos via WhatsApp to 07864 667940 for a quick assessment.