Fruit Decoration Appraisal

White Ceramic Fruit-Decorated Pitcher

This item is a decorative ceramic pitcher or creamer, primarily white in color with a ribbed or textured body, giving it a basket-weave, corn-on-the-cob, or husked appearance. The top portion features vibrant, glazed fruit and leafy foliage motifs in shades of red, green, yellow, and brown, indicating a theme of abundance or harvest. The handle is an integral part of the design, also featuring the same basket-weave or ribbed texture as the body. The base is flat and unglazed around the rim, showing some minor dirt or residue accumulation consistent with age and use. The bottom of the pitcher displays a clear manufacturer's mark in black, featuring an elaborate crest-like design with a stylized 'S D' intertwined within leaves, topped by what appears to be a lion or mythical creature. Below this mark, the number 'MR21206' is stamped, likely a model or production number. A red, oval-shaped sticker is also affixed to the base, which appears to say 'GENUINE... CANADA' though parts are obscured. This suggests a Canadian origin or distribution. The craftsmanship appears to be of good quality, with clear detailing in the molded textures and a rich, glossy finish on the applied fruit decoration. The item likely dates from the mid-20th century, given the style of the decor and the type of manufacturing mark. There are no readily visible chips, cracks, or significant damage, though a more detailed in-hand inspection would be required to confirm overall structural integrity and pinpoint any hairline fractures or crazing. The vibrant colors of the fruit decoration are well-preserved, suggesting it has been cared for.