KPM Porcelain ca. 1885

I don't know about you but this looks like something you might buy at Cracker Barrel.  A reproduction of days gone by maybe, so imagine my surprise when I happened to look at the back and noticed a maker's mark, KPM.  

Quick research told me that it was made about 1885 by the Konigliche Porzallen Manufactur company in Berlin Germany.  The company was started in 1761 by Johann Ernst Gotzkowsky.  A couple of years later Gotzkowsky ran into financial difficulties and the company was taken over by Frederick the Great, King of Prussia.  In today's market KPM is most sought after for its plaques.

Since we can date the item to 1885 I like to think that it was something that John W. Moran purchased for his wife Sophia. 

Young Lady, Off the Shoulder Evening Dress by Thuss

This lovely young woman is unknown to us.  The photograph was taken at Thuss Studios, 230 Cherry Street, in Nashville, Tennessee. I liked her so much I've included a closeup of her lovely face.

Two Dapper Pipe Smokers, Dyersburg TN ca 1895

Here's a great picture of two young men with pipes.  We think the fellow on the right is Jim Moran III.  Taken at Dyersburg, Tenn, "Photo by Taylor."