What is Aynsley China?

Aynsley China is a historic English porcelain brand associated with Longton, Stoke-on-Trent, known for its bone china tableware, gifts and souvenirs. The company began in Lane End, Longton, and later operated from the Portland Works factory. Collectors use the term Aynsley to describe a wide range of products: tea sets, dinnerware, vases, trinket boxes, festive decorations and giftware. The brand name is important because many designs were produced in large quantities, so one cup can often be matched with a later saucer if the name of the pattern is known. Ownership changed in the late 20th century, but the Aynsley name remained in the ownership of the Belleek group.