What is it? English transferware from the aesthetic movement (1870 through 1900). You'll know it's an aesthetic piece if it has Asian-influenced scenes with asymmetric, bold, or geometric patterns. These attributes illustrate the movement's backlash to the formal and rigid Victorian years.
How much will I pay? These pieces haven't been scooped up yet, so prices are still affordable. Plates in good condition run from $50 to $250. Some patterns, makers, and shapes (especially hollow pieces, such as soup tureens or pitchers) will be more.
Display ideas: Hang transferware as you would art. "They're like paintings, and I love that each time I pass them I notice something new," says dealer Tom Newcomer.
Aesthetic Movement Transferware Dealers
Tom and Jan Newcomer, Horsefeathers Antiques, 607/746-7644; rtnewcomer@gmail.com
Mark Brown and Tim Sublette, Seekers Antiques, 614/291-2203; www.seekersantiques.com
Dennis Freeman Interests, 513/254-7537; www.dennisfreeman.com (EBay name is 341)
Sarah Eigen, 212/982-0719; eudora@nyc.rr.com