Antique Cabinet Plate Appraisal

Latticework Porcelain Cabinet Plate with Shepherdess Scene

This item is a decorative cabinet plate crafted from white porcelain, featuring an intricate open latticework border. The center of the plate showcases a beautifully hand-painted pastoral scene depicting two shepherdesses with their flock of sheep in a rolling landscape. The colors in the central image are vibrant yet soft, with hues of green, blue, brown, and pink, suggesting a serene outdoor setting. The sky transitions from a warm orange to a purple, hinting at either sunrise or sunset. The figures of the shepherdesses are rendered with attention to detail in their attire and expressions. The central image is framed by a delicate gold-colored rim, adding a touch of elegance. The latticework border is a significant feature, showcasing fine craftsmanship, where individual porcelain strands are intricately woven or molded to create a net-like effect. This type of border, sometimes referred to as reticulated or pierced, requires careful manufacturing and indicates a certain level of quality. The plate appears to be in good condition with no immediately visible chips, cracks, or significant wear to the painted surface, though a thorough inspection would be needed to confirm. Given the context 'Wako china,' this plate may be associated with a manufacturer or retailer from Japan known for fine porcelain. The overall style, with its pastoral theme and delicate detailing, suggests an estimated age from the late 19th to mid-20th century, consistent with similar decorative porcelain wares of that period. Quality indicators include the fine detail of the painting, the intact nature of the delicate latticework, and the presence of a gilded rim.