Franciscan Masterpiece China Grey Renaissance 50-Piece Dinnerware / Tableware Collection for Ten

From 1934 to the 1960's, the Franciscan name, first manufactured by Gladding McBean and Co., and later by Interpace, was a well known favorite in many American homes. In 1942 they introduced their exquisite fine china tableware line, Masterpiece China.  On a historical note, a special service Masterpiece design with the Presidential Seal was chosen by Jacqueline Kennedy  to serve as the Official Air Force One China during both the Kennedy and Johnson Presidencies. We know why. Refined and ultra elegant, this vintage Masterpiece Grey Renaissance collection, with a light cream colored background, displays a calming ornamental rim of white flower and scrolled leaf pattern amid grey, and highlighted with a fine, shiny gold trim. This unusually lightweight, yet sturdy set, is also translucent-you can see your hand through the plate when held to the light.  When style matters, the cool understated elegance of the Masterpiece Renaissance design exceeds any sophisticated dining expectation. Pe