Handled Plate Appraisal

Vintage Handled Snack Plate with Floral Motif

This appears to be a vintage snack plate or server, designed with a central handle. The plate is circular, likely made of ceramic or porcelain, with a creamy white or off-white base color. Its primary decoration is a stylized floral motif in the center, featuring what looks like dogwood or similar blossoms with prominent stamens. The flowers and accompanying foliage are rendered in a monochromatic palette of black, dark grey, and white, creating a stark but elegant contrast against the light background. A thin gold-colored band encircles this central floral design, adding a touch of sophistication. Further out, around the rim of the plate, there is a continuous border pattern of intertwined leaves and small flowers, also in the same black/dark grey and white tones. The handle, positioned centrally, is elongated and slightly curved, with a raised ridge or detailing down its middle, and appears to be gold-trimmed. The material of the handle seems to match the plate, suggesting it's an integrated part of the ceramic construction rather than an added metal component. The overall aesthetic suggests a mid-20th-century design, possibly from the 1940s to 1960s, a period known for elegant dinnerware with floral and often gold accents. The craftsmanship appears to be of good quality, with clear decal application and neat gold-trimming, indicating a mass-produced item from a reputable manufacturer, though no specific maker's marks are visible in the provided image. The surface shows some reflections, hinting at a glossy glaze, and there are no immediately obvious chips, cracks, or significant wear, though a comprehensive condition assessment would require multiple views. The plate's design makes it suitable for serving small appetizers, pastries, or perhaps as a tea-time accessory.