Peony Plate Appraisal

White-eared Hummingbird and Peonies Collector's Plate with Certificate of Authenticity

This item is a collector's plate titled "White-eared Hummingbird and Peonies," from the 'Gems of Nature' series, manufactured by Pickard, Inc. The plate features a detailed, vibrant illustration of a white-eared hummingbird hovering near a large, blooming peony. The dominant colors in the artwork include various shades of red and pink for the peony, greens for the foliage, and a soft blue-to-yellow gradient for the background, creating a serene, naturalistic scene. The hummingbird itself is rendered with fine detail, showcasing its distinctive white ear patch and iridescent plumage. The plate has a decorative gold-toned rim, possibly with an intricate patterned edge, indicating a high level of craftsmanship and attention to detail typical of collector's plates. It is accompanied by a 'Certificate of Authenticity' from Pickard, Inc., which verifies its limited edition status. The certificate states that it is an authentic original porcelain collector's plate, number 1251A in an edition limited to a maximum of 150 firing days. The certificate also bears the signature of the artist, 'Crystel Nelson', as the creator of the 'Beautiful Hummingbirds' wildlife series. There are no visible signs of wear, chips, cracks, or repairs on the plate or the certificate, suggesting it has been well-preserved. This piece belongs to modern collectible ceramics, likely produced in the late 20th or early 21st century given the style and certificate packaging. The overall quality appears excellent, with fine artistry and a clear, well-maintained certificate.