Common Marks and Signatures on Vintage Christmas Ornaments
Identifying vintage Christmas ornaments can be a fascinating and rewarding hobby. Beyond their beauty and charm, many ornaments bear marks and signatures that provide crucial clues about their manufacturer, age, and origin. These markings are like tiny fingerprints, allowing collectors to piece together the history of these beloved holiday treasures. This guide will explore some common marks and signatures found on vintage ornaments, helping you become a more informed collector.
Why are Marks Important?
Marks provide several valuable insights:
- Manufacturer Identification: Knowing the maker helps determine rarity and value.
- Age Determination: Marks often changed over time, indicating the ornament’s era.
- Origin: Some marks identify ornaments made in specific regions like Germany, Japan, or the United States.
- Authenticity: Some reproductions lack proper markings, helping distinguish originals from fakes.
Common Manufacturers and Their Marks
Germany
Germany was, and remains, a major producer of Christmas ornaments. Many early ornaments originated there. Identifying German marks requires familiarity with German script and markings.
LGB (L.G. Bahmann & Co.)
LGB was a prolific maker of ornaments from the late 1800s to the early 1900s. Their marks vary, but you're likely to find “LGB” or “L.G.B.” often accompanied by a circle or a series of numbers.
U.S. Zone (USZ) / Chr. Morgenspiel
U.S. Zone was the trading name of Chr. Morgenspiel, a German company. You might see "US Zone" or "U.S. Zone" markings. These are generally from the early to mid-20th century.
KPM (Königsberg Porcelain Manufacture)
While primarily known for porcelain, KPM also made some glass ornaments. Look for their distinctive "KPM" mark.
Japan
After World War II, Japan became a significant producer of Christmas ornaments, often at lower price points. Japanese marks are often printed or stamped.
"Made in Japan"
The most obvious mark – simply "Made in Japan." This indicates ornaments generally from the 1950s through the 1970s.
Generic Paper Labels
Many Japanese ornaments had paper labels with company names or descriptions. These are fragile and often missing.
United States
While not as prolific as German and Japanese manufacturers, several U.S. companies produced vintage ornaments.
S.F.B. (S. Finch & Sons Co.)
S.F.B. was a New York-based manufacturer of novelty ornaments, especially popular in the 1920s and 1930s.
M.F. & Co.
Another American manufacturer, M.F. & Co., produced a variety of ornaments in the mid-20th century.
Tips for Identifying Marks
- Use a Magnifying Glass: Many marks are small and difficult to see.
- Research Online: Numerous websites and forums are dedicated to identifying vintage ornament marks.
- Consult with Experts: Antique dealers and experienced collectors can often help identify unknown marks.
- Consider the Ornament's Style and Materials: These can provide clues about the manufacturer and era.
Identifying marks on vintage Christmas ornaments is a continuous learning process. Happy hunting, and enjoy the fascinating journey into the history of these cherished holiday treasures!
