Wedgwood Kutani Crane vs. Wedgwood Bideford

Written By Patricia DeTiberiis
Shop Wedgwood here

What’s the Difference — and Which Is More Collectible?

At first glance, Kutani Crane and Bideford look almost identical. Both feature cranes and floral motifs with strong Asian influence. Both are classic English bone china. And both are frequently confused — even by experienced sellers.

But they are not the same pattern.

If you’re buying, selling, or pricing these pieces, the differences matter.

Pattern Background

Kutani Crane

Kutani Crane was introduced by Wedgwood in the early 1970s and remained in production into the late 1990s.

The design features:

  • Two cranes

  • Bamboo and floral motifs

  • Brown trim

  • Warm ivory bone china ground

It was widely produced and is still readily available on the secondary market. Because of that, pricing tends to be more accessible compared to earlier Wedgwood crane patterns.

Bideford

Bideford predates Kutani Crane and is an earlier Wedgwood pattern.

Key characteristics:

  • Similar crane and floral composition

  • Green band at the rim

  • Richer, often more saturated color application

It is less common than Kutani Crane and can command stronger prices, particularly in full sets or harder-to-find serving pieces.

The Key Visual Differences

1. Rim Treatment (Fastest Identifier)

  • Kutani Crane: Brown trim, no green band

  • Bideford: Green trim

If you see a colored band around the edge, you are almost certainly looking at Bideford.

2. Color Saturation

Bideford often appears slightly deeper and more vivid. Kutani Crane feels a bit softer and warmer overall.

3. Backstamp

Always flip the piece over.

  • Kutani Crane will be marked as such.

  • Bideford will clearly state “Bideford” in the backstamp.

Never rely on pattern alone when pricing — always confirm with the mark.

Age & Market Value

Bideford

  • Older

  • Harder to source

  • Stronger resale potential when condition is excellent

  • Especially desirable in complete dinner services

Kutani Crane

  • Produced later and in larger quantities

  • More common on resale platforms

  • Excellent for everyday luxury buyers

  • Strong seller when priced correctly and in full sets

For sellers, condition is everything. Gold wear on Bideford or trim fading on Kutani Crane can significantly affect value.

Which One Should You Buy?

  • Buy Bideford if you want older production, green band detail, and stronger long-term collector appeal.

  • Buy Kutani Crane if you love the motif but want a more affordable entry point into classic Wedgwood crane designs.

Both are beautiful. One is simply earlier and rarer.


Looking for Authentic Vintage Wedgwood?

While individual Wedgwood pieces featured or referenced here may sell quickly, Fine Vintage Treasures regularly sources authentic Wedgwood china and related English porcelain.

👉 Browse currently available Wedgwood here:
https://www.finevintagetreasures.com/collections/wedgwood

Searching for a specific piece?If you’re looking for a particular pattern, form, or era, we’re happy to keep an eye out.

Shop available Wedgwood



Patricia DeTiberiis
Next

Micro Mosaic Jewelry