Mourning Belle Appraisal

Rosetti "Mourning Belle" Hand Painted Porcelain Plate (Saucer)

This item is identified as a porcelain plate, likely a saucer given its size and the inner ring designed to hold a cup, manufactured by Rosetti. The back of the plate features a clear maker's mark and several identifying inscriptions. The central mark is a crown logo with the word "ROSETTI" prominently displayed beneath it, further accompanied by "IMPORTS, U.S.A." and below that, "Hand Painted" and "MADE IN CHINA" in smaller script. Above the crown, the faint script reads "Mourning Belle." The plate itself is crafted from white ceramic or porcelain with a glossy glaze. The rim is gently scalloped or fluted, adding a decorative element to its form. A thin band of gold trim is visible along the very outer edge of the plate, and another similar gold line encircles the inner ring designed for a cup. The plate appears to be in excellent condition with no visible chips, cracks, crazing, or significant wear to the gilding. Its bright white color and reflective glaze suggest it has been well-preserved. The 'Hand Painted' designation indicates a level of craftsmanship that sets it apart from mass-produced, solely machine-decorated items, potentially suggesting a more intricate decorative pattern on the front side, though this is not visible in the provided image. The 'MADE IN CHINA' mark, combined with 'IMPORTS, U.S.A.', suggests it was produced in China for the American market. Its style, with the scalloped edge and gold trim, points towards a classic or perhaps mid-20th century aesthetic, though without a view of the front, a precise dating is difficult. The overall quality appears high, reflecting typical standards for collectible or fine dinnerware.