Vintage Franciscan Appraisal

Franciscan Apple Blossom Dinnerware Set

This appears to be a portion of a dinnerware set, specifically featuring plates of varying sizes, likely a dinner plate and a salad or dessert plate, from the 'Apple Blossom' pattern by Franciscan Ceramics. The items are crafted from ceramic (earthenware or stoneware, likely earthenware given the period and style) with a creamy white glaze base. The central design motif is hand-painted or hand-decorated, showcasing vibrant pink apple blossoms with distinct yellow centers, surrounded by rich green leaves and brown, twig-like branches. The edges of the plates are scalloped or fluted, adding a decorative organic touch, and are trimmed with a hand-painted brown line that accentuates the scalloped form. The overall aesthetic is rustic and charming, characteristic of mid-20th century dinnerware designs focused on natural themes. Visible condition appears good, with no obvious chips, cracks, or significant crazing identifiable from the images. The painting quality appears consistent across the visible pieces, indicating a standardized production process with artisanal finishing. The style suggests an estimated age from the 1940s-1960s, a period when Franciscan's hand-decorated patterns were highly popular. The slight variations in the hand-painted elements on each piece are a testament to their manufacturing process and add to their unique character. The choice of colors is soft yet appealing, making these pieces suitable for both casual and semi-formal dining settings. No maker's marks or signatures are visible in the provided image, but they would typically be found on the underside of the pieces.