Stapled Porcelain and China

Historically items of porcelain that got broken would often be repaired using staples, especially if the broken piece was especially expensive. China dinner and tea services were highly prized and were representative of wealth and status, so broken pieces were rarely thrown away. The process of repair using a fine drill, water based adhesives and metal wire was often difficult to do, as the repair needed to be strong enough that that piece could continue to serve its purpose as well as withstand repeated washing. So, while a stapled or riveted repair may look crude, it represents a skilled piece of work by a knowledgeable person, on a piece of china that was valued and loved.

Here you will find items for sale that have historic stapled repairs - a symbol of love and a true piece of history.