Handmade Plate Appraisal

Handmade Ceramic Coastal Theme Plate

This is a round, handmade ceramic plate featuring a distinctive two-part artistic design. The upper portion of the plate is glazed in a vibrant, deep cobalt blue with a glossy, somewhat mottled finish, suggestive of water or the ocean. A lighter blue or whitish line with a textured, foamy appearance separates the blue section from the lower portion, effectively mimicking a wave breaking on a shore. The lower half of the plate, which constitutes the majority of the ceramic surface, is a matte white or off-white background adorned with numerous hand-drawn or transfer-printed seashell motifs in black outline. The shells exhibit various types, including conch shells, spiral shells, and scallop shells, creating a detailed and intricate pattern across the surface. The rim of the plate appears to have an uneven, organic edge, consistent with handmade pottery, and features an exposed, unglazed or lightly glazed earthy-toned (possibly brown or tan) clay along its outermost circumference. The visible surface shows a smooth, generally good condition, with no overt chips, cracks, or significant wear apparent from the image. The glazes appear intact and vibrant. There are no discernible maker's marks or signatures visible in this view. The craftsmanship suggests it is a unique piece, likely created by an artisan, possibly in recent decades given its contemporary aesthetic. The intentional irregularities and the duality of the design make it a distinctive example of decorative or functional pottery with a clear coastal or nautical theme.