German Dinnerware Appraisal

Heinrich & Co. Selb Bavaria 'Paso' Dinner Plate

This item is a white porcelain dinner plate, likely part of a larger dinnerware set. The visible side is the unglazed footrim and the manufacturer's mark on the underside of the plate. The plate appears to be round with a slightly raised footrim that is unglazed, revealing the natural bisque color of the porcelain. The primary color of the plate is a pristine white, indicating high-quality porcelain that is well-vitrified. There are no immediate visible condition issues such as chips, cracks, or significant crazing, suggesting good preservation. The surface appears smooth and glossy, reflecting ambient light. The most prominent feature is the maker's mark located centrally on the underside. It consists of multiple elements: at the top, a script reading "Hutschenreuther Selb". Below this, within an oval, is the text "BAVARIA GERMANY". Underneath this is a stylized lion rampant holding a shield with an 'H' inside, surmounted by a crown. Further below, a distinct diamond-shaped mark contains the word 'PASO'. These markings clearly identify the manufacturer as Hutschenreuther of Selb, Bavaria, Germany, with 'PASO' likely referring to a specific pattern or line. The presence of 'Bavaria Germany' indicates a manufacturing origin. Additionally, there are two hand-painted or stamped red numbers, '26' and '16', positioned on opposite sides of the central mark. These numbers could signify a production batch, mold number, or potentially a decorator's mark. The craftsmanship appears to be of high quality, typical for German porcelain manufacturers of this era, characterized by thinness, translucency (though not directly observable), and a clean finish. Based on the style of the mark and the 'Germany' designation, this piece likely dates from the mid-20th century, post-World War II, when 'Germany' became the standard country mark. The lack of significant wear or surface scratches suggests careful use and storage.