Adams Cries of London Plate Value Guide

The Adams Cries of London series is highly collectible for its nostalgic portrayal of 18th and 19th-century street vendors, based on famous historical engravings. This specific 1930s plate featuring 'Do you want any matches, my little man?' captures a poignant scene of childhood commerce that remains a favorite among transferware enthusiasts.

What Is Adams Cries of London Plate Worth?

The typical price range for Adams Cries of London Plate is $30 - $40 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Condition of the gold rim, as rubbing or significant wear to the gilding can reduce the $30-$40 market value.
• Presence of crazing, chips, or cracks in the ceramic body which are common in 1930s English earthenware.
• Clarity and alignment of the transfer print, ensuring the scene is centered and the colors remain vibrant.
• Market demand for this specific scene compared to other variations within the Adams Cries of London series.

How to Identify Adams Cries of London Plate?

• Look for the specific 'Adams' backstamp on the reverse, often accompanied by the 'Cries of London' series title.
• Verify the scene title 'Do you want any matches, my little man?' printed clearly within the transfer design.
• Check for the presence of a genuine gold rim, which was a standard decorative feature for this specific 1930s production run.
• Examine the transferware quality for the detailed, multi-colored depiction of the match-seller and the young boy.

History of Adams Cries of London Plate

The 'Cries of London' series by Adams China depicts various street vendors and their daily lives in 18th and 19th century London. These scenes, originally popular prints and engravings, were adapted onto ceramics, capturing a nostalgic view of urban life. The specific scene on this plate, 'Do you want any matches, my little man?' is a well-known depiction of childhood poverty and street commerce from that era.