What's it Worth?

Your tea service most likely dates from the 1930s, and is one of several types known as Dragonware, a pottery that typically has raised decorations of dragons. The pattern is common, combining Moriage (raised decoration, often enameled) and a motif known as Satsuma. These are most likely porcelain, and you can confirm this by putting a strong light behind a plate or the bottom of a cup. Since porcelain is translucent, the light should shine through. Many owners, under the false assumption that Dragonware is “too valuable to use,” display their tea services in china cabinets. Why not put yours to fun use instead by holding a tea party? After all, complete services like yours regularly sell for between $45 and $60 on eBay