1913 Calendar Plate Appraisal

Vintage 1913 Calendar Plate with Fruit Motif

This is a circular ceramic calendar plate dating to the year 1913. The plate exhibits a scalloped, molded rim typical of early 20th-century decorative earthenware. Centrally located is a transfer-printed still life featuring ripe apples on a leafy branch, rendered in autumnal shades of red, orange, and green. The cream-colored background of the plate is heavily crazed, displaying a fine network of surface cracks throughout the glaze, which is a common age-related condition for semi-porcelain or ironstone of this era. Around the border, the twelve months of the 1913 calendar are displayed in individual decorative vignettes separated by holly-like leaf motifs and geometric heraldic-style medallions in a dark sepia or brown tone. The outer edge is finished with a thin, partially worn gold gilt band. The craftsmanship suggests a mass-produced commemorative item, likely distributed as a promotional gift by a merchant or general store. While no maker's mark is visible from the front, similar pieces were frequently produced by American potteries such as Shenango or Homer Laughlin. Condition issues include significant crazing and some minor staining, which are consistent with an item of this age that may have been used for display or light service.