In business under a variety of names since the mid-nineteenth century, the George Wade pottery in Burslem, England, has produced many forms of ceramic items. Wade is perhaps best known, however, for their delightful series of tiny porcelain animals known as Whimsies. Highly collectible, the Whimsies have been joined over the years by many equally charming miniatures, some sold by the company directly and others distributed as premiums. With over 370 color photos clearly showing over 1,000 items, this book showcases the endearing miniatures produced by Wade from the 1950s to the 1990s, including Red Rose Tea and Tom Smith premiums, Whoppas and Whimsie-land figurines, Nursery Favourites, Happy Families, Disney's Hat Box series, the diminutive Minikins, and many more. Also featured are Wade's highly detailed miniature villages--from England's Whimsey-on-Why to Ireland's Bally-Whim--original Wade boxes and displays, information on color and size variations, company marks, and up-to-date values for all items. A treat for Wade lovers everywhere! AUTHOR: Donna Baker is a writer and editor from West Chester, Pennsylvania.
Wade Miniatures : An Unauthorized Guide to Whimsies, Premiums, Villages, and Characters