David and Daniel Haviland, two brothers, were New York china importers. While on a buying trip to France in the early 1840s, David Haviland decided to remain in that country. He brought his family to Limoges where he supervised the purchase, design, and decoration of pieces sent to America. In 1852, Charles Field Haviland, David’s nephew, arrived in France to learn the family business. Charles married into the Alluaud family, owner of the Casseaux works in Limoges. Charles Edward and Theodore Haviland, David’s sons, entered the firm in 1864. A difference of opinion in 1891 led to the liquidation of the old firm and the establishment of several independent new ones. [Author's note: I told you it was complicated.]

Today, Haviland generally means ceramics made at the main Casseaux works in Limoges. Charles Edward produced china under the name Haviland et Cie between 1891 and the early 1920s. Theodore Haviland’s La Porcelaine Theodore Haviland was made from 1891 until 1952.

References: Harry L. Rinker, “Dinnerware of the 20th Century: The Top 500 Patterns,” House of Collectibles, 1997; Arlene Schleiger, “Two Hundred Patterns of Haviland China, Books I–VI,” now published by Dona L. Schleiger; Nora Travis, Haviland China, Schiffer Publishing, 1997, 1998 value update.

by Harry L. Rinker
“Official Price Guide to Collectibles”