When you think of formal dinnerware, Lenox is probably one of, if not the first, brand name you think of. Since its very foundation in 1889, Lenox has always regarded itself as a pioneer of both quality and beauty. Walter Scott Lenox began as a decorator and a designer for pottery in 1875 and it wasn't long until he became the design director at Ott & Brewer (a ceramics company). After the company failed, he decided it was time to launch his own company. From its inception, Walter Lenox stated, "It is my will and desire that Lenox, Incorporated shall at all times manufacture the highest possible grades of porcelain, that the standard of excellence already attained shall ever be advanced..."
Lenox differed from other companies in that it was run in an art studio rather than a factory and offered one-of-a-kind ivory china. In less than ten years, the intricately painted pieces were featured in the Smithsonian Institution. At first they only concentrated on vases, pitchers, and tea sets, but with a demand for formal dinnerware, Lenox knew it had to expand. By 1906, the company began offering complete dinnerware sets and dropped "Ceramic Art Company" from their name. The demand for fine china continued to grow and Lenox responded with standardized patterns, rather than just custom pieces. In 1918, Lenox became the first American china in the White House. It is currently the only American china continually used in the White House.
Even after Walter Lenox's death in 1920, the company continued to prosper, mainly because of chief designer Frank Graham Holmes. He won numerous awards and was a master at combining contemporary and classic styles. Even during a time of war, Lenox did not falter and provided for the war effort. Their china is known for being extremely durable, but they needed something stronger. They developed Lenoxite, a ceramic strong enough to be used in insulators, resistors, and other radar and electronics equipment.
Designs of current fashions always kept Lenox a popular choice. When the times changed, Lenox kept their formal dinnerware in step. Lenox became the china of choice for Americans and it still is today. Half of all fine porcelain dinnerware purchased in America since 1950 is Lenox! But fine china is not the only thing Lenox prides itself in. Vases, boxes, ornaments, figurines, and other home décor items grace many households. Lenox listened to what their customers wanted and always delivered. Today, Lenox dinnerware has adorned the tables of presidents, vice-presidents, U.S. embassies, governor's mansions, and Congressmen. Brides across the nation have filled their registries with Lenox collections.
Lenox has been around for over one-hundred years and they have shown no signs of stopping. Their ever-increasing list of products are sought after by people around the world. The vision of Walter Lenox has not faded and they still remain a leader in formal dinnerware.
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TableAndHome.com is your source for casual and formal dinnerware and serveware by top brands like Arthur Court, Spode, Royal Doulton and Lenox, as well as great home decor items by Godinger Silver. Visit us today and check out our extensive selection, including toys and gifts by Gund, Russ Berrie, and other popular manufacturers.
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