Viking Ship Plate Appraisal

Carlton Ware 'Viking Ship' Scalloped Edge Plate

This item is a decorative plate, likely a dessert or salad plate, featuring a creamy white ceramic or porcelain body with a distinctive scalloped, wavy rim. The plate's surface exhibits a subtle raised swirl or fluting pattern emanating from the center to the edge, adding a textural dimension. The rim is adorned with a delicate gold gilt line, enhancing its elegance. At the center of the plate, a vibrant green and gold 'Viking ship' motif is prominently displayed. The ship is depicted in profile, with a single sail detailed with horizontal lines, and the hull designed to resemble a stylized dragon or serpentine creature with a curled tail. The decorative element is finely executed, suggesting a transferware application with hand-painted gold accents on the ship's mast and possibly other details. The overall condition appears good with no visible chips, cracks, or significant wear to the gilt edge or central decal, although a few minor specks or imperfections might be present on the white surface, consistent with age or manufacturing. Without a visible maker's mark, definite manufacturing details or an exact style period are difficult to ascertain; however, the style evokes mid-20th century decorative dinnerware, possibly from the 1940s-1960s, a period when such whimsical designs and gilt accents were popular. The craftsmanship is indicative of mass-produced yet quality tableware, with attention to decorative detail.