Homer Laughlin Virginia Rose Pattern Plate

This is the underside of a ceramic plate produced by the Homer Laughlin China Company. The piece is crafted from cream-colored earthenware or semi-vitreous china, characteristic of Mid-Century American dinnerware. The backstamp is clearly visible in dark ink, featuring the HLC logo, the pattern name 'VIRGINIA ROSE', and the 'MADE IN U.S.A.' designation. Below the location, a date code 'G 43 N 8' is present, suggesting a manufacturing date around 1943. The plate shows a wide rim with a subtle scalloped or embossed edge consistent with the Virginia Rose shape, which was introduced in the early 1930s. Physically, the glaze appears smooth and lustrous, though there are visible signs of wear including some darkened scuff marks along the foot ring and light surface grime. Two pieces of adhesive masking tape are applied to the surface, which should be removed carefully to avoid residue damage. There are no immediate visible cracks or large chips on the reverse side, indicating the piece has been relatively well-preserved for its age, though the presence of tape suggests it may have been displayed or bundled for sale.