Sterling Vitrified China is practically immortal.... (from a 1971 newspaper advertisement) 

{HISTORY}

Manufactured by one of the hospitality industry's leading dishware makers, these Sterling Vitrified China soup cups were made in the 1970s in East Liverpool, Ohio for the restaurant industry.

In business since 1917, Sterling China had steadily built up a reputation for craftsmanship and design that appealed particularly to restaurants and hotels all around the country. By the mid-20th century, Sterling was at the top of its game,  and even expanding the pottery into newly acquired plants, including one in Puerto Rico.

Especially known for their glazing techniques and lasting design durability, the pottery continued to grow and thrive throughout the 20th century. But, unfortunately, in the early 2000s, Sterling China closed, just shy of their 100th birthday, as they were unable to compete with foreign markets.

This soft grey-blue and white color palette displays an airbrushed pattern that is similar to two other restaurant ware manufacturer's patterns... Syracuse China's Oakleigh and Harker China's Wild Rice. That makes it fun for mix-and-match table settings and dynamic displays.

Sometimes restaurant ware will give you clues as to the specific eating establishment they came from. These do not. But their gorgeous pattern is hard-to-find today. We like to imagine that back in the day they served up hot cups of chowder. thick split pea soup and savory spoonfuls of chili on the coldest of winter days. Incorporate them into your summer serving too where they'll easily moonlight as ice cream dishes, yogurt cups, and fresh fruit salad holders. 

These cups are in gorgeous vintage condition. There are ten available, each sold separately. If you would like multiple cups, please mark your desired quantity on the drop-down tab.

{SPECIAL FEATURES}

- Colors include bright white and blue-grey

- Rare, hard-to-find pattern

- Stamped on back with maker's mark and date codes H2 and H3 which represents a 1970 manufacture date

{CONDITION}

In excellent vintage condition. Contains no chips or cracks. Ultra shiny glaze. 

{SIZE}

Each cup measures 4" inches (diameter) x 2.5 "inches (height) and weighs 8oz. 

{FOR THE COLLECTOR}

Find more vintage restaurant ware here.