The Piece
Noritake “Barrymore” Pattern 9737 China Service
Japan, Mid-Century
A refined mid-century porcelain table service in Noritake’s Barrymore pattern, featuring a soft ivory ground, stylized blush and teal floral banding, and generous gilt detailing.
Complete for eight place settings, with one dinner plate shy of a perfect twelve.
This is formal dining done properly.
Primary Description
Produced by Noritake Japan in the mid-20th century, Barrymore (Pattern 9737) blends Art Deco–inspired geometry with romantic floral elements.
The design features:
– Soft ivory porcelain body
– Stylized blush fan-like florals
– Teal accents woven through the border
– Beaded gold trim and strong gilt rim
The gold banding is substantial and warm — not brassy, not thin. It frames each piece with confidence.
This is not lightweight department-store china. Noritake’s mid-century porcelain has weight, balance, and a glaze finish that reads clean and refined even decades later.
What’s Included
Approx. 40–50 pieces total, including:
– 8 Dinner Plates (missing one from full 9-count if originally set of 9)
– 8 Salad Plates
– 8 Bread & Butter Plates
– 8 Cups
– 8 Saucers
If additional pieces are present, adjust count in final listing.
The set presents as a cohesive 8-place setting service.
About Noritake
Founded in 1904, Noritake became one of the most recognized Japanese porcelain manufacturers exporting fine china worldwide throughout the 20th century.
The Barrymore pattern remains actively traded and documented in the secondary market, with steady collector and replacement demand.
Reference:
Noritake Company History
https://www.noritakechina.com
Replacements Ltd – Barrymore 9737
https://www.replacements.com
Condition
Overall very good vintage condition.
– Gold trim remains strong with minor edge wear
– No visible cracks observed
– No major chips noted in photos
– Light utensil wear consistent with age
The presentation reads elegant and intact.
Why It Belongs in Your Home
Because this is the kind of tableware that transforms a dinner into an event.
Barrymore works beautifully with:
– Brass or gold flatware
– Dark wood tables
– Linen napkins in blush, cream, or deep green
– Layered vintage crystal
It feels intentional. Collected. Considered.
And mid-century formal china is absolutely back in style.