Harlequin: Homer Laughlin Dinnerware
Harlequin is a line of brightly colored, Art Deco-influenced dinnerware produced by the Homer Laughlin China Company of Newell, West Virginia, from 1938 to 1964 (and briefly revived in 1979). Sold exclusively through F.W. Woolworth stores at affordable prices, Harlequin was designed as a less expensive companion to Homer Laughlin's wildly popular Fiesta line. With its distinctive concentric ring design, angular Art Deco handles, and vibrant solid color glazes, Harlequin has developed a strong collector following rivaling Fiesta itself.
History & Background
- 1938: Harlequin introduced by Homer Laughlin, designed by Frederick Hurten Rhead (who also designed Fiesta)
- 1938-1964: Produced exclusively for sale at F.W. Woolworth five-and-dime stores
- 1938-1943: Original four colors: Mauve Blue, Spruce Green, Maroon, and Yellow
- 1950s: Additional colors introduced including Chartreuse, Forest Green, Gray, and Medium Green
- 1964: Production discontinued
- 1979: Limited revival in Turquoise and Medium Green for Woolworth's 100th anniversary
Colors & Rarity
| Color | Period | Rarity |
|---|---|---|
| Mauve Blue | 1938-1959 | Common |
| Spruce Green | 1938-1959 | Common |
| Maroon | 1938-1959 | Common |
| Yellow | 1938-1964 | Common |
| Rose (Coral) | 1938-1959 | Common |
| Turquoise | 1938-1964 | Common |
| Chartreuse | 1952-1959 | Moderate |
| Forest Green | 1952-1959 | Moderate |
| Gray | 1952-1959 | Moderate |
| Medium Green | 1959-1964 | Scarce; most valuable |
Identification & Marks
- Unmarked: Most Harlequin pieces are completely unmarked -- identification is by form and color
- Occasional marks: Some pieces have "Homer Laughlin" backstamp or "HARLEQUIN" mark
- Shape identification: Concentric rings on flatware, angular Art Deco-style handles on cups and serving pieces
- Body style: Thinner walls than Fiesta; rings are sharper and more defined
Key Forms & Novelty Items
- Harlequin animals: Small figural animals (cat, fish, donkey, lamb, duck, penguin) used as premiums -- the most collectible Harlequin items
- Individual pieces: Plates, cups, saucers, bowls in all sizes
- Serving pieces: Platters, creamers, sugars, teapots, casseroles, pitchers
- Novelty forms: Nut dishes, ashtrays, candle holders, egg cups
Auction Price Ranges
| Item | Low | Mid | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plate, common color | $3 | $8 | $20 |
| Cup and saucer, common color | $5 | $12 | $30 |
| Medium Green plate | $15 | $40 | $100 |
| Teapot, common color | $20 | $60 | $150 |
| Harlequin animal (maverick) | $15 | $40 | $100 |
| Harlequin animal, gold trim | $50 | $150 | $400 |
| Novelty ashtray | $10 | $30 | $75 |
| Complete place setting, Med. Green | $30 | $100 | $250 |
Condition Factors
- Glaze chips: Even tiny chips are visible on solid-color glazed surfaces; reduce value by 50% or more
- Ring wear: The raised concentric rings show wear first; heavy ring wear indicates extensive use
- Color consistency: Original, vibrant color is essential; faded or dull pieces are less desirable
- Crazing: Harlequin should not craze; presence indicates a defect
- Staining: Interior staining on cups and bowls from use reduces appeal
Collecting Tips
- Medium Green is the rarest and most valuable standard color; pieces bring 3-5 times the price of common colors
- Harlequin animals are the most prized items; gold-trimmed animals are particularly scarce and valuable
- Unlike Fiesta, most Harlequin is unmarked; learn the shapes and ring pattern for confident identification
- Harlequin is more affordable than Fiesta across the board, offering a budget-friendly entry into Homer Laughlin collecting
- The 1979 Woolworth revival pieces in turquoise and medium green are less valuable than originals
- Mix-and-match color collecting (the "harlequin" approach) is traditional and visually striking
- Reference: "Homer Laughlin China: A Guide to Shapes and Glazes" by Jo Cunningham covers Harlequin comprehensively