Heart China Plate Appraisal

Mallory Wetherell Hand-Drawn Porcelain Plate with Anatomical Heart and Daisies

This is a porcelain plate, likely a small decorative or dessert plate, featuring intricate hand-drawn pencil artwork. The plate has a classic circular form with a slightly raised rim, typical of dinnerware. The primary color is a soft off-white or cream, characteristic of unadorned porcelain, providing a clean canvas for the detailed illustrations. The central motif is a highly detailed, anatomically rendered human heart, drawn with fine lines and shading that mimic pencil work. The heart exhibits a blend of grey and subtle reddish-brown tones, giving it a realistic yet artistic appearance. Surrounding this central image, on the raised rim of the plate, is a border of daisy-like flowers. These flowers are drawn in monochrome, primarily black and white, with visible fine lines and stippling used to create texture and depth, particularly in the petals and background areas. The stippling, composed of numerous small dots, fills the spaces between the flowers on the rim, creating a textured, almost speckled effect that contrasts with the smoother central area. The craftsmanship is evident in the precision of the anatomical drawing and the delicate execution of the floral border. The visible lines suggest a direct application of pigment, possibly a ceramic pencil or underglaze transfer, which has then been fired for permanence. Despite the detailed drawing, the surface appears smooth and glazed, indicating a professional finish. There are no obvious signs of chips, cracks, or significant wear visible in the image; the plate appears to be in excellent condition. Given the context, this plate was created in 2014 by Mallory Wetherell as a wedding gift, making it a contemporary piece of art pottery. The artist's signature is reportedly present, though not visible in the provided image. The combination of medical illustration and naturalistic floral elements creates a unique aesthetic, blending scientific precision with classical decorative motifs. Quality indicators include the fine line work, consistent shading, and the presumed durability of the applied ceramic decoration.