Freia

Freia: Chocolate, Advertising and Collectibles

Freia is a Norwegian chocolate business originating in Rodeløkka, Oslo. Freia identifies 1889 as its foundation year, while 1898 marks its incorporation as a limited company. Johan Throne Holst acquired the factory in 1892. These dates describe different events.

Freia product names and advertising illustrations also appear on collectibles. Regia Cocoa was launched in 1912. Historical imagery and spelling give the advertisements their character, but do not independently date the objects carrying them.

Brand and porcelain manufacturer

On a plate with Freia advertising, the name identifies the brand represented by the decoration. The porcelain manufacturer must be identified separately. OBA has examined Freia side plates and cake plates marked by Porsgrunds Porselænsfabrik. See also porcelain.

Illustration dates and factory markings

The underside may show a plate number, a year beside the factory mark and dates for the original advertisement. Examined plates numbered 1 to 4 are marked 1999, while numbers 5 and 6 are marked 1997. This documents those examples, not the entire series' production period.

One examined cake plate carries both “Made in Norway, 1999” and “Freia kakefat 1995”. It also refers to a baking-book illustration from 1929 and advertising text from 1931. Record these details separately without treating the illustration date as the porcelain's production year.

Examination and valuation

Photograph the front, complete underside, marks and any damage. Record diameter, number of pieces and known history. Check edges, glaze, decoration and repairs. Describe any included hanging attachment separately.

Compare design, size, markings and condition when assessing price. Documented sales provide stronger evidence than unsold asking prices. An old advertising design alone does not establish age or rarity.

Sources

Freia: background; Freia's history; Freia's product history. Marking examples are based on photographed undersides examined by OBA.