About

Luella Dean started the same way I do most things, entirely by mistake, and quickly became an obsession. For me, there is really something about antiques. Specifically, the thrill of digging and spotting a piece of ironstone tucked behind a box of mismatched plates, and knowing exactly what it is.

I'm based in New England, which means I have no shortage of old things to hunt through. I source up and down the East Coast and anywhere else worth pulling over for, with trips planned further afield, including overseas, because apparently I don't know when to stop.

My particular obsession is ironstone and European kitchenware: the kind of pieces that were made to be used, loved, and handed down. Sturdy, beautiful, and full of history. Over time, that obsession has branched out into transferware, serving pieces, decorative finds, and whatever else catches my eye.

I'll always be honest with you about the condition. A chip, a crack, a bit of crazing, a stain. To me, those aren't flaws; they're proof of a piece that's been on someone's table for over 100 years. I photograph and note everything, and more often than not, the pieces with imperfections are my favorites.

As for the name, Luella was my great aunt's first name. She didn't have a shop, I didn't even meet her, but the name felt right, and I would like to think she owned some cool things.

Everything here is one of a kind. I hope something finds its way to you.

-Clara