Sunbonnet Sue China Appraisal

Vintage Sunbonnet Sue Tea or Coffee Set

This vintage ceramic set consists of a large lidded teapot (or coffee pot) and two matching mugs, featuring the iconic 'Sunbonnet Sue' folk-art character. The teapot is tall with a bulbous lower body, a scalloped pedestal base, a slender swan-neck spout, and a tall C-scroll handle, finished with an iridescent pearlescent glaze and gold-gilded rim accents. The lid features a unique double-arch finial and steam vent holes. Each piece displays a decal of a girl in a large blue sunbonnet and plaid dress holding dried wheat, accompanied by the scripted text 'Start each day in a happy way.' The mugs feature a contrasting slate blue interior. Based on the whimsical illustration style and pearlescent glaze, this set likely dates from the 1970s or early 1980s, a peak period for the Sunbonnet Sue revival. The craftsmanship shows standard mid-to-high quality commercial pottery from that era. Condition appears fair to good: while the surfaces show a clean luster, there is visible brownish staining or age-related discoloration on the teapot's decal and lower body, suggesting moisture penetration under the glaze or iron spots common in older ceramics. No major chips or cracks are immediately visible, but the wear on the graphic elements suggests frequent use or improper storage.