Heidelberg Crest Appraisal

Vintage Heidelberg Crest Lusterware Trio Set

This is a three-piece vintage porcelain tea set, commonly referred to as a 'trio,' consisting of a teacup, saucer, and matching side plate. The set features a distinctive iridescent luster glaze that provides a pearlescent, mother-of-pearl appearance over a cream-colored base. Each piece is decorated with a scalloped edge highlighted by fine gold-gilt trim. The interior of the cup prominently displays a heraldic coat of arms for Heidelberg, Germany, featuring a golden lion rampant on a black and gold shield, surmounted by a castle wall crown. Flanking the crest and decorating the plates are ornate, transfer-printed scrolling acanthus leaves and floral motifs in a muted olive-green or grey tone. The teacup has a raised pedestal foot and an elegant, scrolled handle with gold accents. Based on the style and the souvenir heraldic motif, this set likely dates from the mid-20th century (circa 1950s-1960s), a period when German porcelain manufacturers like Reutter or Schumann produced such souvenir cabinet sets for the tourist market. The craftsmanship shows high-quality glazing and delicate floral detailing. Visible condition shows minor shelf wear on the bottom of the plates and slight thinning of the gold gilt on the rim of the cup and plate edges, consistent with age and occasional use. There are no readily apparent chips or cracks visible in the provided image.