Riviera: Homer Laughlin's Art Deco Dinnerware
Riviera is a line of solid-color dinnerware produced by the Homer Laughlin China Company of Newell, West Virginia, from 1938 to approximately 1950. Sold exclusively through the Murphy Company (a department store chain) as a premium with the purchase of other goods, Riviera was never available for general retail sale. Its Art Deco-influenced shapes, bright Century-body glazes, and relative scarcity compared to Fiesta and Harlequin make it a focused and rewarding collecting specialty.
Colors and Production
Riviera was produced in a limited palette of colors: mauve blue, red, yellow, light green, and ivory. A dark blue color was briefly produced but is extremely rare. Unlike Fiesta, which had a wide range of forms, Riviera's line was relatively compact -- approximately 15-20 different pieces including plates, bowls, cups, saucers, platters, tumblers, butter dishes, casseroles, and salt and pepper shakers.
Identification
Riviera pieces are generally unmarked -- they do not bear a backstamp or maker's mark, which distinguishes them from Fiesta and Harlequin. Identification relies on recognizing the distinctive Century shape (squared-off edges with rounded corners) and the characteristic glaze colors. The body is lightweight compared to Fiesta, and the clay is the same ivory base used for other Homer Laughlin lines.
Auction Price Ranges
| Piece | Typical Range | Premium Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Dinner plates | $8 - $20 | $35 for rare colors |
| Cups and saucers | $10 - $25 | $40 for dark blue |
| Platters (oval) | $15 - $35 | $60 for large sizes |
| Tumblers (juice/water) | $30 - $75 | $150+ for rare colors |
| Covered casseroles | $40 - $100 | $175 for dark blue |
| Butter dishes (1/4 lb) | $60 - $150 | $250+ for rare colors |
| Salt and pepper shakers (pair) | $12 - $30 | $50 for hard-to-find colors |
| Complete place settings | $50 - $100 | $200 for rare color groupings |
Condition Factors
Riviera's glaze is somewhat softer than Fiesta's, making it more susceptible to utensil marks, knife scratches, and minor chips. Crazing (fine lines in the glaze surface) is common and reduces value moderately. Chips on edges and rims are the most frequent damage. Because pieces are unmarked, condition and color are the primary value determinants. Stacking wear on plate surfaces is common and acceptable in moderation.
Collecting Tips
Riviera is less well-known than Fiesta, which means knowledgeable collectors can still find pieces at reasonable prices at estate sales and flea markets where sellers may not recognize the line. The lack of markings works in the educated collector's favor. Build knowledge of the Century shape and color palette to spot Riviera in mixed lots. Complete sets are challenging to assemble due to the limited original distribution. The Riviera butter dish and tumblers are the most sought-after forms. Pair your Riviera knowledge with awareness of Fiesta and Harlequin, as all three lines share the Homer Laughlin heritage and appeal to overlapping collector communities.