Fairy Plates Appraisal

The Apple Blossom Fairy Collector Plate by Heinrich Villeroy & Boch

This item is a collector's plate titled "The Apple Blossom Fairy," identified as the sixth issue in the 'Flower Fairies Collection.' The series is inspired by the acclaimed works of Cicely Mary Barker. The plate bears the unique Plate Number 344310, indicating its specific production sequence within the series. The plate is predominantly white, made of porcelain or fine china, as suggested by the manufacturing details. The reverse side features black text providing the series information, title, plate number, and a poetic verse related to the Apple Blossom Fairy. The verse reads, in part, "Up in the tree we see you, blossom-babies. All pink and white; We think there must be fairies to protect you From frost and blight. Until some windy day, in drifts of petals, You'll take your flight. You'll fly away!" and another section states, "But if we wait with patience, Some day we'll find Here, in your place, full-grown and ripe, the apples You left behind - A goodly gift indeed, from blossom-babies To human-kind!". A key identifying characteristic is the manufacturer's mark, 'HEINRICH' underneath a crown logo, followed by 'GERMANY' and 'Villeroy & Boch', confirming its origin and maker. There's also a warning: "Not for consuming food due to potential toxicity of metallic pigments used with plate for color fading." This indicates that the plate is for decorative purposes only, suggesting the presence of metallic or colored enamels on the front, although the front is not visible in the provided images. A small, circular, cream-colored adhesive hanger with a golden wire loop is attached to the upper center of the plate's back, indicating it was intended for wall display. The plate appears to be in good condition with no visible chips, cracks, or significant wear on the back, though some very minor surface discoloration or dust may be present around the rim and hanger from handling or display. The printing on the back is clear and legible. Given the manufacturer and the nature of collector plates, it likely dates from the late 20th century.