AI Appraisal Estimate

This item is a white porcelain dinner plate, likely part of a larger dinnerware set. The visible side is the unglazed footrim and the manufacturer's mark on the underside of the plate. The plate appears to be round with a slightly raised footrim that is unglazed, revealing the natural bisque color of the porcelain. The primary color of the plate is a pristine white, indicating high-quality porcelain that is well-vitrified. There are no immediate visible condition issues such as chips, cracks, or significant crazing, suggesting good preservation. The surface appears smooth and glossy, reflecting ambient light. The most prominent feature is the maker's mark located centrally on the underside. It consists of multiple elements: at the top, a script reading "Hutschenreuther Selb". Below this, within an oval, is the text "BAVARIA GERMANY". Underneath this is a stylized lion rampant holding a shield with an 'H' inside, surmounted by a crown. Further below, a distinct diamond-shaped mark contains the word 'PASO'. These markings clearly identify the manufacturer as Hutschenreuther of Selb, Bavaria, Germany, with 'PASO' likely referring to a specific pattern or line. The presence of 'Bavaria Germany' indicates a manufacturing origin. Additionally, there are two hand-painted or stamped red numbers, '26' and '16', positioned on opposite sides of the central mark. These numbers could signify a production batch, mold number, or potentially a decorator's mark. The craftsmanship appears to be of high quality, typical for German porcelain manufacturers of this era, characterized by thinness, translucency (though not directly observable), and a clean finish. Based on the style of the mark and the 'Germany' designation, this piece likely dates from the mid-20th century, post-World War II, when 'Germany' became the standard country mark. The lack of significant wear or surface scratches suggests careful use and storage.

Based on my examination of the provided image, this Heinrich & Co. Selb Bavaria 'Paso' dinner plate appears to be in excellent condition. There are no visible chips, cracks, or significant crazing, and the unglazed footrim shows minimal wear, suggesting careful use and storage. The white porcelain retains its pristine appearance and glossy finish. The manufacturer's mark, 'Hutschenreuther Selb BAVARIA GERMANY' with the stylized lion and the 'PASO' pattern identifier, is clear and authentic for the period. The presence of 'Germany' indicates a post-WWII production, likely mid-20th century, which aligns with the overall style. The red numbers '26' and '16' are typical factory or decorator marks. In terms of market conditions, Hutschenreuther porcelain, while highly regarded for its quality, is not exceedingly rare, especially common dinnerware patterns. The 'Paso' pattern is aesthetically pleasing but does not command premium prices associated with more elaborate or rare designs. Comparables for individual dinner plates from similar German manufacturers of this era typically range from $20 to $40, depending on condition and demand for the specific pattern. As a single plate, its value is significantly less than a full set. Demand for individual dinner plates, unless needed to complete an existing set, is moderate. Factors impacting value include the excellent condition and the clear, authentic maker's mark. However, its commonality as a dinner plate pattern and its status as a single item rather than a full set limit its top-tier valuation. Limitations: My authentication is based solely on visual examination of the image. A definitive appraisal would ideally require physical inspection to confirm the porcelain's translucency, feel for any subtle surface imperfections not visible in the photo, and assess weight/balance. Provenance documentation, though unlikely for an item of this value, would further solidify its history. Scientific testing, such as material analysis, is not typically necessary or cost-effective for objects of this type unless significant doubt regarding authenticity arises.