Sango 'Fresco' Dinner Plate (Pattern 3540)

This is a fine china dinner plate from the Sango 'Fresco' pattern, identified by the provided context as pattern number 3540. The plate is circular, crafted from white to off-white porcelain, and features an elegant design. The central well of the plate is plain and smooth, providing a clean surface for food presentation. A prominent feature is the wide rim, which is adorned with an intricate, raised, and glossy white floral and scrolled foliage pattern. This embossed design catches the light subtly, adding depth and texture to the otherwise monochromatic scheme. The inner and outer edges of this decorative rim are bordered by a thin, silver-colored metallic band, which provides a sophisticated contrast to the white china and enhances its formal appearance. The plate appears to be in excellent condition with no visible chips, cracks, or significant wear to the surface or the metallic banding. The craftsmanship indicates a high-quality manufacturing process, likely machine-made with precise pattern application. As a piece of Sango china from Japan, it falls within the late 20th century, likely produced between the 1970s and 2000s, a period when such elegant and durable dinnerware was popular for formal dining. The consistent color and clear, sharp details of the embossed pattern suggest it has been well-maintained.

Based on my examination of the provided image and the owner's details, this Sango 'Fresco' Dinner Plate (Pattern 3540) appears to be in excellent condition. The white porcelain, intricate raised floral and scrolled foliage pattern on the wide rim, and the thin silver-colored metallic bands all show remarkable clarity and lack of wear. There are no visible chips, cracks, or significant abrasions. This suggests very careful handling or minimal use. The 'Fresco' pattern is clearly identifiable, and, given Sango's reputation as a Japanese manufacturer from the late 20th century, the item's authenticity as a Sango piece is highly probable. The consistent quality observed across the pattern details is typical of machine-made fine china from that era. Regarding market conditions, Sango 'Fresco' dinnerware is generally considered a popular, though not highly rare, vintage pattern. Comparables for individual dinner plates in this condition typically range from $20 to $50 on secondary markets, such as online marketplaces and specialized vintage dinnerware sites, depending on seller and demand fluctuations. Demand for complete sets tends to be higher, but individual pieces like this plate meet the needs of those looking to replace broken items or expand existing sets. The excellent condition is a significant positive factor, enhancing its appeal and value. My primary limitation in providing a definitive authentication is the lack of physical inspection. While the visual evidence strongly supports its authenticity and condition, a hands-on examination would allow me to verify the plate's weight, feel the texture of the porcelain and embossed design, and fully assess for any subtle surface scratches, crazing, or minor wear on the metallic banding that might not be visible in an image. Provenance documentation, though not typically extensive for individual dinnerware pieces, would further solidify its history. Scientific testing is generally not required for appraisals of this type of item.