What is chalkware?

Chalkware is a type of ornamental plaster popular in the 19th and early 20th centuries. It was made by pouring a liquid mixture of plaster of Paris into a mold and allowing it to dry and harden. Once the plaster had set, the mold was removed and the piece could be painted and decorated.

Chalkware was often used to create decorative figurines, busts, and wall plaques. These pieces were often painted in bright, colorful designs and used as decorations in homes. Chalkware was particularly popular in Victorian and Edwardian times, when it was used to create decorative items for mantelpieces, shelves, and walls.

Today, chalkware pieces are collectible and can be found in antique shops, flea markets, and online auctions. Due to its fragile nature, chalkware pieces can be prone to damage and wear over time. Collectors should take care to handle and display chalkware items carefully to preserve their value and beauty.