What is SylvaC

A. SylvaC ware was produced by the firm of Shaw and Copestake at the Sylvan works in Longton, Staffordshire. From its beginnings in 1894 the factory produced highly ornate vases, clock sets, jugs and basins, but in the late 1920s there was a dramatic increase in production with the introduction of new lines of a different kind, the novelties and fancies for which it is best known. Around 6,000 different lines were produced, including ornaments, ashtrays, vases, bowls, wall plaques, vases, cups, character jugs, plates, book-ends made from dogs or rabbits, butter dishes with animal-head handles and money boxes.

Q. It's an odd name. Where did it come from and how do we know if an item is SylvaC
A. The name came about in the 1930s by running together the name of the works and the initials of the firm's founders - the name Sylvan had already been registered by another company. Shaw and Copestake wares were first marked with a stamp of a daisy and 'Made in England'. Later models had bases impressed with SylvaC and the model number.

However, these numbers did not run in sequence. The principal reason for this was that the firm was associated with Thomas Lawrence, makers of Falcon Ware, who used a similar numbering system on their models. Identical wares were produced bearing either the SylvaC or Falcon Ware backstamp. The majority of models were also given a mould number, usually found impressed on the base of the piece. The two companies amalgamated in 1957 and SylvaC continued in production until 1982, when the company went into voluntary liquidation.

Q. What kinds of animal figures were produced
A. Dogs formed the largest single group of animal models, both in realistic studies and in caricatures. Most of the popular breeds are represented in some form, and well over 200 different models were produced. The most popular finish was matt fawn, followed by matt green. Blue, pink and yellow were less popular at the time of production, which makes them more desirable to modern collectors.

SylvaC dogs appear in all shapes and sizes - including novelty models such as the 'toothache dog' - from just over 2.5cm (1in) to around 28cm (11in) tall. Generally speaking, the larger models are rarer and more pricey. The most popular models stayed in production for 40 years, though later on, particularly in the 1960s, they tended to be finished in bright glaze and hand-painted. One of the most popular dog models was the collie (model 1548), which stands 20cm (8in) high, and was available from the 1940s to 1975. Less popular designs were comparatively short-lived, and this is reflected in their current availability

Second in popularity to dogs were the bear ornaments made in the 1930s and 1940s. Most bear species are to be found in various appealing poses and for some reason most examples that turn up nowadays seem to be in good, original condition. One group to look out for consists of three cubs, one standing, one sitting and one laying on its back, holding its hind leg with one front paw and clutching its head with the other. Polar bear number 134 was made in the 1950s to commemorate the birth of two cubs at London Zoo. The cuddly koala is another 'bear' that SylvaC crafted to lifelike perfection in a variety of forms. It is usually found sitting on a log, which in some cases doubles as a flower holder.

Q. Are they worth anything
A. Although they could never be mistaken for high art, the range, affordability and charm of SylvaC's animal models has made them popular with collectors. Unusual examples are now eagerly sought after. So, not enough to retire on, but worth something.

Q. Where can you find them
A. Antiques shops and specialist china dealers tend not to stock SylvaC. Although fairs and collectors' markets are the obvious hunting grounds, it is worth having a look at local auctions, car-boot sales and jumble sales. Some of the more out-of-the-way gift shops may still have new stock stored away in a back room or even on their shelves. It was said that at one time every household in the country had at least one piece of SylvaC, so it's worth asking older relatives to turn out their cupboards or search their attics.

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By Simon Smith