Elfinware, sometimes called "mossware", is a type of decorative ceramic ware. Often little shoes, tiny teapots, or pots of flowers were made in this manner, which included lots of applied decoration and colorful glazes:
One of the hallmarks of elfinware is allover applied flowers. Another is "spinach", a green background for the flowers. Collectors really prize the spinach!
I would call my shoe "elfinware", although the lace has the "Dresden" appearance. Various companies made elfinware, and you won't find the word "elfinware" stamped on the pieces for identification. Perhaps I had better find a better example for you than my shoe....
I had to go to Ebay to grab a photo. The little watering can below shows the applied flowers and the desirable "spinach" surrounding a center rose:
Elfinware isn't particularly expensive or rare. You can shop Ebay right now and pick up pieces for a reasonable $8 to $20 and start a collection today!
Mitzi
