What is the history of shafford hand painted bone china?

Question

I purchased some absolutely stunning cups and saucers at an auction marked " shafford...hand painted "" japan
I know they are very old but can't find any history on the company that made shafford.
I would like to date the items and learn a bit about the company.

Thanks to all that can help.

Answer 1

Shafford:
http://search.ebay.com/Shafford-cup-saucer_W0QQ_trksidZm37QQfromZR40
http://www.rubylane.com/ni/shops/victoriasjems/ilist?ss=shafford&samedb=1&previd=2.7&sb=1
http://cgi.liveauctions.ebay.com/Shafford-China-Cup-Saucer-1888206_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQcategoryZ28221QQihZ020QQitemZ300175237584
http://www.replacements.com/china/SHA.htm
There are so very many citations listing products from this company but I've yet to see a history. Perhaps you can find it within one of the many listings' descriptions or through a trade journal archive. I hope this helps!

Answer 2

Hand Painted China From Japan

Answer 3

perhaps Stafford (shire), chances are it is pre - WW- II Japan.
usually things pre WW- II are labeled "Japan"> After WW- II they are usually labeled "Made in Japan"
Check out "Replacements Inc" website
send them photos and they may be interested in purchasing them, or ask for other pieces in that particular set as they sell missing pieces for people to make their sets complete.
These types of cups are likely ceramic or porcelain.
NOT POTTERY.

Answer 4

Is it perhaps "Staffordshire"

Link : http://www.thepotteries.org/allpotters/322_crown.htm