Vintage Furniture Maker Appraisal

George Zee & Co. Manufacturer's Plate

This item is a rectangular brass or brass-plated metal manufacturer's plate, affixed to what appears to be a darker-toned wooden surface, likely a piece of furniture. The plate has a black background with raised, polished gold or brass lettering, providing excellent contrast and legibility. The text identifies the manufacturer as 'GEORGE ZEE & CO.', with 'KILN DRIED ART CARVED FURNITURE MANUFACTURERS' listed below. Further details include the address '122, NATHAN ROAD, KOWLOON H.K.' and 'MADE IN HONG KONG'. A sequential 'NO. ES-384' is also visible, likely indicating a model or serial number for the specific furniture piece it was attached to. The plate is secured to the wood with at least two visible small, round fasteners, one in the upper right and another in the lower left, which appear to be brass screws or nails, consistent with the plate's metallic finish. The metal shows some minor surface scratches and possibly slight oxidation or tarnishing commensurate with age and handling, but the text remains perfectly clear. The wooden surface it is attached to exhibits a rich reddish-brown hue with visible wood grain and several light surface scratches or dust particles, indicating it is an aged piece of furniture. The manufacturer's details suggest a company specializing in high-quality, carved wooden furniture, likely from the mid-to-late 20th century, given the 'MADE IN HONG KONG' designation during its manufacturing boom. The 'Kiln Dried' specification indicates attention to wood preparation, a mark of quality to prevent warping and cracking.