Vintage 1950s Johnson Bros Friendly Village Cup & Saucer

This is a cup and saucer set made in England by Johnson Bros as part of their The Friendly Village line. This set depicts The Ice House, a very pretty winter scene of an ice house and other red buildings amongst snow and bare trees. The saucer measures 5 5/8 in diameter and is marked on the underside with the pattern name, the mailbox with The Friendly Village written on it and Made in England by Johnson Bros,, Reg, U.S. Pat. Off.. This mark pre-dates 1963, when the marking additionally began to read All Decoration Under the Glaze Permanent & Acid Colors, a Genuine Hand Engraving. My understanding is that the quality of the Friendly Village dishes was diminished when Johnson Bros was acquired by the Wedgwood group in 1968, so early production of this pattern is sought after. They now make this pattern in China and it doesnt have the same quality or appearance at all. The cup is simply impressed with Made in England, also an early marking practice. Note that the pattern goes all around the top of the rim, a particular variation that collectors look for. This set is in very good condition with no chips, cracks or wear - I have five sets, all in the same condition, price is for one set.
This is a wonderful original issue Friendly Village cup and saucer - great addition to a collection!