How do you identify the source of Bavarian china patterns?

To identify the source of a Bavarian china pattern and authenticate the piece, turn the china over, and check the bottom for the maker's mark. The maker's mark is unique to the manufacturer and identifies the company and country in which the piece was made.

Common Bavarian china manufacturers include Jaegar, Heinrich & Co., Old Nuremburg, J&C Bavaria, Z. S. & Company and Uno Favorite Bavaria. The marks for different manufacturers often change over the years, helping to date a piece as well as authenticate it. Common elements in a mark include the name of the company or an abbreviation for it, a symbol for the company, such as roses or a crown, and the country of origin.