Lenox

Founded in 1889 by Walter Scott Lenox in Trenton, New Jersey, Lenox is the only manufacturer of fine bone china in the United States. Combining European traditions with American innovation, Lenox has become a symbol of prestige, elegance, and national heritage.

The brand is globally recognized for its unique “creamy” ivory porcelain and its historical role as the provider of official state dinnerware for the White House.

Lenox was the first American china to be used at a presidential table. Since 1918, it has been commissioned by six presidents to create unique state service sets:

• Woodrow Wilson (1918): The first set, featuring the presidential seal in gold.
• Franklin D. Roosevelt (1934): A classic set with a gold stars and roses motif.
• Ronald Reagan (1981): Famous for its bold scarlet border and heavy gold gilding.
• Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, and Barack Obama: Continuing the tradition of American-made excellence for world leaders.

Unlike the stark “paper white” of many European and Asian brands, Lenox is famous for its Ivory Bone China.

• Color Profile: A warm, creamy tone that provides a softer, more inviting background for gourmet plating.
• Durability: Despite its delicate look, Lenox uses a proprietary glaze that is exceptionally resistant to metal marking (scratches from knives and forks).

• Autumn: Introduced in 1918 and still in production today. It features hand-applied enamel “jewels” and intricate floral motifs, representing the peak of American ceramic artistry.
• Holiday: One of the most famous Christmas patterns in the world, featuring the iconic holly and berry design.

Lenox revolutionized the luxury market by developing microwave-safe gold and platinum trims. This allows homeowners to enjoy the elegance of gilded dinnerware with the convenience of modern technology—a feature rare among traditional European luxury brands.

• Dishwasher Safety: Most modern Lenox collections (including those with gold trim) are dishwasher safe. Use a mild detergent and avoid “High Heat” cycles to preserve the brilliance of the ivory body.
• Storage: Use felt dividers when stacking to prevent the unglazed “foot” of the top plate from scratching the delicate glaze of the plate below.

— See Also:

• The Anatomy of American Bone China
• Royal Doulton: The British Counterpart