The Origins of Beswick Pottery and Its Iconic Beatrix Potter Figurines Beswick Pottery was founded in 1894 in Longton, Stoke-on-Trent by James Wright Beswick and his two sons, John and Gilbert. Originally known for producing tableware, the company began shifting its focus in the 1930s, moving towards the creation of ceramic animal models—a decision that …
Author: Ali Kewell
Guide to Collecting Stratton Powder Compacts
A Short History of Stratton Compacts Since its founding in 1860 as a knitting needle manufacturer under the name Stratnoid, Stratton has produced some of the most beautiful and sought-after powder compacts. In 1923, the company rebranded as Stratton and began importing parts from America to assemble its first compacts. By the 1930s, manufacturing had …
Product Photography & Styling using Vintage Books
Enhance Your Product Photography with Vintage Books Have you ever spent hours searching for the perfect props for your product photography, only to feel underwhelmed by the final result? It’s easy to invest time and effort into styling your shots, only to find that your chosen props or backgrounds don’t quite complement your product as …
Vintage Observer’s Books
Collecting Vintage Observer’s Books Starting or expanding your Observer’s Books collection Are you beginning a collection of vintage Observer’s Books or looking to learn more about the ones you already own? Since their first publication in 1937, these charming pocket-sized guides have been highly collectible, with some titles far easier to find than others. The …
Beatrix Potter: Copyright & Beswick Figurines
Early Peter Rabbit Merchandise The Journey of Beatrix Potter Figures: A Surprising Beginning Have you ever wondered how the Beswick factory in Stafford became the renowned manufacturer of Beatrix Potter figurines? The story begins with Beatrix Potter’s early struggles with publishing, patents, and copyright—challenges that were often disheartening and costly. Despite her immense talent, her …
How to Date Vintage Frederick Warne Books using Printer Codes
Dating Beatrix Potter Books and Observer’s Pocket Series Books Have you ever wondered when your vintage Observer’s Books were actually printed? Determining the exact publication date can sometimes be a tricky process, as not all editions include clear dating information. In many cases, key details—such as the edition number and reprint dates—are printed on the …