Homer Laughlin Patterns and Shapes

Fiesta-The Homer Laughlin Company began producing Fiesta in 1936. This wonderful new dinnerware line was introduced at a Pottery and Glass show in Pittsburgh. Fiesta was an instant success. It was introduced in 5 colors; red (which is a deep orange color) ,ivory, blue (a rich cobalt), yellow, and light Green. In late 1936 turquoise was added to the original 5 colors. In 1939 Fiesta Kitchen Kraft was added to the line in blue, yellow, red, and green. These pieces were wonderful kitchen accessory pieces which complemented the original Fiesta dinnerware. During the 1950s Homer Laughlin sold Fiesta in rose, grey, chartreuse, medium green, and dark green. These colors are harder to find then the original 6, so in many cases command a higher price. In 1969 Fiesta was redesigned to compete with other dinnerware patterns of the time period. This line was called Fiesta Ironstone and came in new colors. The only original color used was red. Fiesta Ironstone was discontinued in 1973.

In 1986 Homer Laughlin reintroduced Fiesta. Many pieces were redesigned and the colors were again changed. Fiesta has remained one of the most popular dinnerware lines in today's market. Homer Laughlin holds the public's fascination in Fiesta by introducing new colors frequently. The company has made an effort to shy away from the older collectible colors.

Reference: "The Collector's Encyclopedia of Fiesta, Harlequin, and Riviera" by Sharon and Bob Huxford.

Harlequin -The Homer Laughlin Company began producing Harlequin 1938. This Deco pattern was lighter then Fiesta. It was made in all the Fiesta colors with the exception of ivory. It was also produced in maroon, spruce blue, and mauve. Ths fantastic pattern was easy to mix and match with Homer Laughlin's Fiesta pattern. Harlequin was made exclusely for Woolworth stores and was their best selling dinnerware pattern. In 1979 Harlequin was reissued to celebrate Woolworth's 100th anniversary. It turned out to be a limited edition and did not cause Harlequin prices to drop.

Mexicana / Mexican Decals -The Homer Laughlin Company began producing Mexicana in the late 1930s. The Mexicana decal depicts and assortment of hand crafted Mexican Pottery with bright red trim. This wonderful dinner ware line was extremely popular and is highly collectible in today's antique marketplace. There are several different Mexican Decals. They are not all listed as Mexicana , but they can all be used together.

Riviera -Production of the lovely Deco Riviera design began in 1938. It is a beautiful pattern which incorporates many of the original Fiesta colors. As a matter of fact many Fiesta collectors use the Riviera kitchenware with their Fiesta dishes. Rivera was sold exclusively by The Murphy Company until sometime in the 1950s.

Riviera is a complete dinnerware set. While there are many extras such as butter dishes and covered jugs the number of pieces made are limited. This beautiful streamlined pattern can be found in green, cobalt, ivory, mauve, yellow, and turquoise. It is also found decorated with gold and silver lines and designs. Many of the decals that were used to decorate Fiesta can also be found on Riviera.