ART DECO TABLEWARE GUIDE
Identification, Materials & Collecting Value
Art Deco tableware represents a diverse and often overlooked category within decorative arts, combining functionality with modern design. During the 1920s and 1930s, manufacturers adapted to changing tastes by introducing streamlined shapes, geometric patterns, and bold color contrasts into everyday dining and serving objects.
Unlike earlier, more ornate styles, Art Deco tableware reflects a shift toward simplicity, modernity, and design-driven aesthetics. Today, these pieces appeal to collectors for their versatility, accessibility, and wide range of materials and price points.
WHAT DEFINES ART DECO TABLEWARE?
Art Deco tableware is characterized by its modern forms and simplified decoration.
Design & Form
- Geometric and angular shapes
- Streamlined, modern silhouettes
- Departure from ornate Victorian decoration
Decoration
- Minimalist or stylized surface designs
- Bold color contrasts
- Abstract or geometric motifs
Materials
- Glass
- Metal (silver, chrome, brass, plated metals)
- Ceramics (porcelain, pottery, earthenware)
In many cases, the shape itself—rather than heavy decoration—defines the Art Deco aesthetic.
TYPES OF ART DECO TABLEWARE
Art Deco tableware includes a wide range of functional and decorative objects used in dining and entertaining.
GLASS TABLEWARE
(Related: Art Deco Glass Guide)
Glass was one of the most widely produced materials during the Deco period.
Features:
- Molded or cut geometric designs
- Clear and colored glass varieties
- Strong emphasis on form and pattern
Collector Notes:
- Depression-era American glass is highly collectible
- Colors such as ruby red, cobalt blue, and green are especially desirable
- ome patterns exhibit clear Deco influence even in mass-produced examples
METAL TABLEWARE
(Related: Art Deco Metalware Guide)
Includes serving pieces and decorative table objects.
Examples:
- Trays
- Serving dishes
- Centerpieces
Features:
- Materials include silver, brass, copper, chrome, and plated metals
- Often streamlined or geometric in design
Collector Notes:
- Chrome and plated metals were widely used
- Wear to plating can impact value but does not eliminate collectibility
- Some figural centerpieces incorporate Deco sculptural elements
CERAMIC & PORCELAIN TABLEWARE
(Related: Art Deco Pottery Guide)
A major category with wide variation in quality and value.
Features:
- Simplified decoration compared to earlier styles
- Use of bold colors or geometric patterns
- Occasionally left undecorated to emphasize form
Collector Notes:
- High-end designer pieces can command strong prices
- Many mid-range and affordable examples remain underappreciated
- Japanese and American production often offers value opportunities
NOTABLE DESIGN STYLES & MAKERS
Art Deco tableware spans a wide range of production levels—from high-end designer pieces to mass-market goods
High-End & Designer Examples:
- Clarice Cliff (Royal Staffordshire Pottery)
- Known for bold patterns such as Bizarre, Geometric, and Fantasque
- Highly sought after by collectors
Mid-Range & Accessible Production:
- English and American pottery manufacturers
- Steubenville Pottery (“American Modern” line by Russel Wright)
- Japanese export wares
Collector Insight:
Pieces without signatures or maker marks can still be highly collectible based on design alone, though signed examples typically command higher prices.
DESIGN & COLLECTOR APPEAL
Art Deco tableware reflects several important themes:
- Modern dining and lifestyle changes
- Emphasis on design over ornamentation
- Accessibility across a broad market
Unlike some Deco categories, tableware was produced in large quantities, making it widely available today. This creates opportunities for collectors to find:
- Affordable entry-level pieces
- Undervalued examples (“sleepers”)
- Complete or partial sets
VALUE & COLLECTING INSIGHTS
Art Deco tableware spans a wide range of values depending on design, material, and maker.
Key Value Factors:
- Design quality and visual appeal
- Material (glass, metal, ceramic)
- Maker or designer (when known)
- Condition (especially for glass and plating)
- Completeness of sets
Important Collector Note:
- Worn plating on metal items can reduce value but does not eliminate collectibility
- Some pieces can be restored or polished to improve appearance
- Many unsigned or overlooked items offer strong value relative to design quality
SELLING ART DECO TABLEWARE AT AUCTION
Art Deco tableware performs well at auction due to:
- Broad buyer appeal (collectors and decorators)
- Ability to group items into attractive sets or collections
- Strong visual presentation in online formats
- Strong visual presentation in online formats
Well-designed pieces—especially those with bold shapes or colors—can attract competitive bidding even without a known maker.
RELATED KNOWLEDGE CENTER ARTICLES
- What Is My Art Deco Worth?
- Art Deco Glass Identification Guide
- Art Deco Pottery & Ceramics Guide
- Selling Decorative Arts at Auction
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