Goebel Wildlife Fourth Edition Bullfinch Collector Plate

This item is a collector's plate, specifically the 'Bullfinch' plate from the 'Wildlife Fourth Edition' series, manufactured by W. Goebel Porzellanfabrik. The plate is made of porcelain, as indicated by 'PORZELLANFABRIK' in the manufacturer's name. It features a stark white base color on the back, visible from the image, and likely a hand-painted depiction of a bullfinch on the obverse side, as 'HAND PAINTED' is prominently displayed. The manufacturing details confirm it was made in Rodental, West Germany, in 1977. The production code '52-522-01-8' is also present. A crucial detail for its appraisal is the inscription 'NOT TO BE USED FOR FOOD', indicating it is purely for decorative or collector purposes rather than utilitarian use. The overall condition appears excellent from the visible back, with no apparent chips, cracks, or significant wear to the glaze or markings. The lettering is crisp and clear, suggesting good preservation. The W. Goebel company is renowned for its high-quality ceramic and porcelain items, particularly figurines and collector's plates, often associated with the M.I. Hummel line. The Goebel mark, a stylized 'Goebel' above 'W. Germany' and the year '1977', is clearly present, authenticating the piece. This plate represents a specific period in German porcelain manufacturing, post-WWII but prior to German reunification, which can add to its historical context and potential value.