Villeroy & Boch (Luxembourg) 'Acapulco'

One of the most recognisable and beloved tableware designs of the 20th century, the Acapulco pattern is a true masterpiece of mid-century modern optimism. Released by Villeroy & Boch in 1967, the design was created by Christine Reuter following an inspiring trip to Mexico.

Reuter translated the vibrant energy of traditional Mexican folk art into a pop-art masterpiece. The pattern features an array of brightly coloured birds and lush tropical foliage, set against the V&B’s modern 'Milano' tableware shapes. It is cheerful design that can enhance any dining setting.

Read more about Villeroy & Boch here.

Collector's Authentication Guide

The 'Milano' Shape

While Christine Reuter designed the pattern, the actual physical form of these original ceramics is called the 'Milano' shape, originally designed by Ludwig Scherer. 

Identifying Backstamps - Blue vs Brown

You can accurately date a piece of Acapulco by examining the Villeroy & Boch backstamp on the underside. A blue stamp indicates early production spanning from the late 1960s through the 1970s. A brown stamp indicates a later production run, spanning from the 1980s until the original run ceased in the early 1990s.

The Dishwasher Marker

Villeroy & Boch only began adding the words 'Dishwasher Safe' to their bottom stamps in 1992, followed by 'Microwave Safe' in 1993. If a piece features these specific phrases, it was manufactured right at the very end of the original production window.

Acapulco New Wave

In the 2000s, the company released a modern revival of the pattern called Acapulco New Wave. These newer pieces are easily identified by their asymmetrical shapes, distinguishing them from the original 'Milano' models.