American, Anonymous
The eagle emblem with a shield, arrows, and olive branch is a distinctly American symbol, often associated with patriotism and official seals, suggesting the saloon operated in the United States, likely during a period when such imagery was popular in branding—roughly the mid-19th to early 20th century. Below the eagle, a banner reads “J. S. HIGGINS OYSTER SALOON.”
Oyster saloons were at their peak in the U.S. during this time, particularly in coastal cities where oysters were a cheap, abundant food source often paired with alcohol in social settings. The plate’s style aligns with restaurant ware from the late 19th century, a time when custom dishware was common for branding in such establishments.
The name “Higgins” appears in several contexts related to oyster saloons or seafood establishments, but none explicitly points to a “J. S. Higgins Oyster Saloon.” The dish was likely used in a coastal city where oysters were abundant, like New York, Boston, or San Francisco.
Item Date: 1850-1900
Measurement: Diameter: 4"
Material: Ceramic, black printed design
Item Condition: Fine
Reference: The late Rex Stark owned a closely related example; published in the China and Glass Quarterly, No. 4; October / November 1997, page 30: Meet Rex Stark.
Price: $525
SKU 1121-171
For More Information, Please Contact David Hillier at 978-597-8084 or email drh@aaawt.com.
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