Ettore 'Ted' DeGrazia 'Sunflower Girl' Collector Plate

This is a vintage fine porcelain collector plate from the 'Children of the Sun' series by the renowned Southwestern artist Ettore 'Ted' DeGrazia. The plate measures approximately 10.25 inches in diameter and features a central motif of a young girl with dark hair and a floral crown, rendered in DeGrazia's signature impressionistic, ethereal style. The color palette is vibrant, utilizing sun-drenched yellows, sky blues, and soft pinks, typical of the artist's desert-inspired aesthetic. The artwork is characterized by fluid, gestural brushstrokes that create a sense of movement and spiritual innocence. The plate is signed 'DeGrazia' on the lower right front. This specific piece was produced in collaboration with 'Artists of the World' likely during the late 1970s or early 1980s. The porcelain shows a smooth, glossy finish with no visible crazing or significant surface scratches. The plate is currently held by three metal spring-clip display hangers; while functional, these can sometimes cause minor abrasions to the rim over time, though none are immediately evident from the frontal view. The overall condition appears excellent, with the colors remaining saturated and free from fading. The plate is shown with its original branded shipping/storage box, which adds provenance and enhances its value to serious collectors of Southwestern Americana and mid-century art plates.

I have completed a visual assessment of the Ettore 'Ted' DeGrazia 'Sunflower Girl' collector plate from the 'Children of the Sun' series. The piece exhibits the artist's hallmark fluid line work and vibrant Southwestern palette. Based on the provided documentation, the porcelain appears in excellent condition with no visible chips or glaze degradation. However, the metal spring-clip hangers pose a risk of micro-abrasions to the rim which could lower the grade upon physical inspection. The inclusion of the original branded box significantly supports its provenance and value. The market for mid-century collector plates, including DeGrazia's collaborations with 'Artists of the World,' has stabilized following a peak in the 1980s. While DeGrazia remains a beloved figure in Arizona and Southwestern art history, these mass-produced porcelain editions are relatively common on the secondary market. Current demand is driven primarily by regional decor enthusiasts rather than speculative investors. Comparable sales for this specific plate typically range from $35 to $75 depending on the completeness of packaging. One limiting factor is the inability to inspect the reverse side for the limited edition number and kilning marks. For a definitive authentication, I would require an in-person examination to verify the hallmark details and check for hidden restoration under UV light. Without a physical tactile inspection, I cannot confirm the absence of minute rim wear caused by the display clips. This estimate reflects the current fair market value for an item in high-quality condition with original box.