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Antique Belleek 1st Black Mark Tea Cup 1863-1890 Irish Parian Porcelain Tridacna
Item Specifics
- Brand: Belleek
- Pattern: Tridacna
- Type: Tea Cup
- Material: Porcelain / Parian China
- Production Period: 1st Black Mark (1863–1890)
- Era: Victorian (1837-1901)
- Origin: Ireland (County Fermanagh)
- Color: Cream / Pale Ivory
This is an exceptional find for collectors of fine Irish ceramics: an authentic, antique Belleek full-sized tea cup in the highly prized Tridacna pattern. This piece was handcrafted in County Fermanagh, Ireland, during Belleek’s legendary First Period (1863–1890). Crafted from premium Parian china, this cup is celebrated for its remarkable "eggshell" weight and brilliant translucency that glows elegantly when held up to direct light.
Design & Pattern Details:
Pattern: Tridacna
Handle: Highly detailed, organically shaped branch style that resembles oceanic coral structureInterior Finish: Finished with a beautiful, lustrous pearlescent glaze
Cup Size: This is a full-sized standard breakfast/tea cup, measuring approximately 3.5 inches in rim diameter and 2.25 inches in height (excluding the handle).
Authenticity Verification:
The underside of the cup features a highly defined, authentic 1st Period Black Mark stamp. This historical mark includes the traditional Irish Wolfhound, the Round Tower, and the Irish Harp atop a scroll banner. In compliance with early production rules, this stamp explicitly lacks the later "Co. Fermanagh, Ireland" or registration text found on post-1891 pieces.
Condition Report:
Condition: Excellent antique condition. Completely free from structural chips, hairline cracks, surface crazing, or modern restorations.
Surface: The glossy factory glaze remains bright and highly reflective. There is negligible shelf wear on the unglazed foot ring. Please examine the provided photographs to fully evaluate the pristine state of this piece.
