Willow-Blue by Johnson Brothers is an iconic blue and white china pattern featuring the classic “Old Willow” design, adapted from the Chinese lore of star-crossed lovers in the court of a Mandarin. Many English and American companies have employed this popular design in various colors. Of these companies, Johnson Brothers is particularly known for producing beautiful, high-quality tableware. The company was founded in 1882, when brothers Alfred, Fredrick, and Henry Johnson (grandsons of the famous Meakin dinnerware family) purchased the Charles Street Works at Stoke-on-Trent in the legendary china-producing region of Staffordshire, England. Producing basic whiteware known as "semi-porcelain," the Johnson brothers created dinnerware that had the delicate characteristics of fine china, but the durability of ironstone. In 1900, a fourth brother, Robert, relocated to the United States to establish a presence for the company in North America. 

Rogaska Richmond (Gold Trim/Multi-Sided Stem) crystal features dazzling polished crisscross cuts on the bowl and starburst cuts on the foot – it’s exquisite! Rogaska was founded in 1665 (more than 100 years before America’s founding fathers convened in Philadelphia to sign the Declaration of Independence) in the mountains of Slovenia, a region long recognized for its glass making. While Rogaska uses modern technologies and processes, the heart of the company’s production has been constant since the 17th century – the individual glassblower and glass cutter, devoted to the aesthetics of their work. With generations of skilled artisans in its employ and world-class crystal designers creating new wares, Rogaska is admired in the crystal industry for unwavering quality and magnificent design.

Westchester by Towle Silver is high-quality stainless steel featuring a scalloped tip, a graceful floral motif, and a glossy finish. The history of Towle Silver is rooted in the Moulton family of England. Starting with William Moulton II, a tradition of craftsmanship and artistry would be built by six generations of Moultons, including William Moulton IV, who would apprentice a young Anthony F. Towle. After years of diligent study, Anthony decided to start his own business upon the retirement of William IV. Using the knowledge he had acquired working with the Moulton family, Anthony Towle and partner William P. Jones would buy the Moulton family stock to form Towle & Jones, Co. in 1857. The company found firm footing and a warm reception in the silver industry and market at large. Production of the first Towle hollowware lines (tea sets and other pieces) began in 1890, and Towle gained recognition for fine craftsmanship in the many years that followed. Patterns like Candlelight, produced since 1934, and Old Master, produced since 1942, have consistently drawn hordes of dedicated followers. Today, Towle embodies all of the original principles set forth by the Moulton family, and used so wisely by Anthony Towle. The Towle Silver legacy of great craftsmanship, alluring design, and quality will ensure its continued success in the silver tableware market.

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