Q:My sister recently gave me an old, small pitcher marked "Grimwades, Royal Winton, England." It is white china with [glazed decoration consisting of] brightly colored flowers against a black background. What is it worth? -- Richmond

Answer: It is English chintz china manufactured during the first half of the 20th century. Most chintz is decorated with overall floral patterns using a lithographic process.

Winton pottery was founded in 1885 by the Grimwade brothers in Stoke-on-Trent and became a major producer of chintz. The firm's name later was changed to Grimwades, and the trademark Royal Winton was used. After changing hands a few times, it eventually became Royal Winton. It is still in business.

English chintz china is popular with collectors. People often collect particular patterns, but many put together eclectic collections. Others search for specific shapes, such as teapots. Your creamer would retail for around $90.

Several English potteries manufactured chintz china between 1900 and 1965, including Crown Ducal in Tunstall and Shelley Potteries in Longton. Royal Winton still produces chintz but marks its products as reproductions.
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