Identify Your Fine Art Chalkware

Since 1984, every Vaillancourt fine art chalkware piece has been individually hand-painted, hand-signed, and carefully numbered as it comes to life. This tradition, established by Judi Vaillancourt from the very beginning, reflects our belief that each piece is not simply a product, but a work of fine art meant to be collected, displayed, and passed down through generations. On the underside of every piece, collectors will find markings that tell part of its story—the design number, the order in which it was painted, and the year it was created. As our collections have evolved, these markings have taken on additional meaning, and many collectors are curious about what these different inscriptions represent.

Each piece follows a consistent signing format, allowing collectors to identify the design and better understand its place within our catalog. By referencing the design number found on the underside, collectors may explore additional details about their piece through our website. While we are proud to help share the history and significance of each design, Vaillancourt does not determine or guarantee secondary market values.

Standard Edition

The Standard Edition represents the foundation of our work and the full expression of Judi Vaillancourt’s original design. Each piece is hand-painted, hand-signed, and numbered in the order in which it is completed in the studio. These pieces carry forward the traditions that have defined Vaillancourt for decades—authentic craftsmanship, timeless design, and a direct connection between artist and collector. For many, the Standard Edition is where a tradition begins.

Artist Proof/Studio Edition

Artist Proofs (or Studio Editions) are the earliest expressions of a new design, created at the very beginning of its life in the studio. Typically limited to three pieces, these works hold special significance as they directly reference Judi Vaillancourt’s original vision and serve as the foundation for all that follow. Valued for their rarity and provenance, Artist Proofs are sought after by collectors who appreciate owning a piece tied to the origin of a design’s story.

Collector’s Edition – Coming in 2026

The Collector’s Edition offers a rare and distinctive interpretation of a design, created in a strictly limited quantity of five pieces during its year of introduction. While remaining true to the original form, these pieces feature subtle finishing distinctions, such as integrated gold accents, a gold base, and a refined enamel finish. Each is marked as a Collector’s Edition and individually numbered within its limited series. These works are created for collectors seeking an added layer of rarity within the Vaillancourt tradition.

Finale Piece – Coming in 2026

At the close of each year, a single Finale Piece is created to mark the final chapter of the studio’s work for that season. Selected from that year’s introductions, this one-of-a-kind piece is signed by the entire Vaillancourt team and includes a special inscription to commemorate the year. The Finale Piece is not simply a variation, but a moment—an artifact that represents the culmination of a year of craftsmanship, creativity, and tradition within the studio.

Care For Your Fine Art Chalkware

Like any fine art, it’s important to the longevity of your piece to care for it well so that it can last generations. Do not wash your chalkware; it’s made of an unglazed material and is not impervious to liquid and moisture. Instead wipe the piece occasionally with a dry, clean, soft cloth.  Do not leave Vaillancourt Chalkware outside or in direct sunlight. Any long term storage should be in a dry location, wrapped in tissue and padding within a closed boxed. Wrapping your chalkware with plastic or bubble for extended amount of time may cause damage to the piece’s finish, especially if stored in an environment with fluctuating humidity. At times, breaks happen and depending on the situation, we may be able to repair your cherished collectible.

Vaillancourt Product Lines No-Longer

Throughout our company’s tenure, the Vaillancourts have worked to create other lines. These include: Classical Christmas Creamware which was produced in England’s oldest pottery factories in Stoke-on-Trent from the late 1990s until the factory closed in the mid-2000s. Et Cetera which was produced in both Maine and Virginia from 2008 – 2012. In 1986, Gorham Silver created a Vaillancourt line in Taipei that was quick to close because of the lack of quality. And from 1991 – 1998, Possible Dreams licensed Judi’s designs under their Clothtique Santa collection.

#ShowUsYourBottoms

On social media, collectors shared a photo of the bottoms of their favorite pieces. It shows how our chalkware pieces have been signed over the years.