Antique Owen China Company Minerva Ohio Platter - Pink Floral circa 1906-1908
Antique Owen China Company Minerva Ohio Platter - Pink Floral circa 1906-1908
Antique Owen China Company Minerva Ohio Platter - Pink Floral circa 1906-1908
Antique Owen China Company Minerva Ohio Platter - Pink Floral circa 1906-1908
Antique Owen China Company Minerva Ohio Platter - Pink Floral circa 1906-1908
Antique Owen China Company Minerva Ohio Platter - Pink Floral circa 1906-1908
Antique Owen China Company Minerva Ohio Platter - Pink Floral circa 1906-1908
Antique Owen China Company Minerva Ohio Platter - Pink Floral circa 1906-1908
Antique Owen China Company Minerva Ohio Platter - Pink Floral circa 1906-1908

Antique Owen China Company Minerva Ohio Platter - Pink Floral circa 1906-1908

Regular price $22

Make new friends, but keep the old: those are silver, these are gold. Joseph Perry (1841-1903)

{HISTORY}

Operating for just 30 years, the Owen China Company might not have been in business for long but they certainly made an impact upon the dishware world during their brief time in the industry. Founded by Edward J. Owen in Minerva, OH, the pottery garnered attention at the St. Louis World's Fair in 1904 when they won the category of best domestic semi-porcelain, which yielded a gold medal for excellence. That gold medal became part of their mark on all their pottery pieces going forward, serving as both a sense of pride and an enduring commitment to quality. Unfortunately, the Great Depression caused the pottery to close down in 1932.

This pink floral platter was made by O.C.C. between 1906-1908, a time when the company was experimenting with metallic glazes and artistic designs. One of the aspects that makes this platter unique among other pink floral platters are the embossed ribbons on the front side of the platter. With a light splattering of now faded gold paint around the rim, a scalloped edge, brightly colored florals and the interesting ribbon design make this platter a visually dynamic example of Victorian/Edwardian style. 

Definitely having seen some adventures, this platter was well-loved throughout its life, just as all gold medalists should be. There are some visible utensil marks on the floral designs and small chippy spots on the backside of the platter, but don't let these condition issues affect how you might incorporate this beauty into your cook space. Very strong and sturdy, there is plenty of life and usefulness left in this serving piece. Around the Vintage Kitchen, we like to use serving pieces like this as fruit and vegetable holders the counter, or as table centerpiece trays for flower vases or candles. It also makes a lovely display piece for the wall, a handy tray for carrying cups or cocktails and a pretty display dish for homemade baked goods like colorful macaroons piled high with pastel charm. 

{SPECIAL FEATURES}

- Pink floral pattern

- Embossed ribbons

- Metallic gold spray around the rim

 - Scalloped edge

- Colors include pink, lavender, raspberry, spring green, pale blue, cucumber, mint and buttercup

- Stamped on back with maker's mark

{CONDITION}

In well-loved condition, this platter features delicate crazing, some small chips on back,  faded metallic paint around the rim, and some utensil marks on the floral sections. Please see photos for details.  None of these flaws affect the sturdiness or usefulness of the platter.

{SIZE}

Measures 13.25" inches (length) x 9.75 " inches (width) and weighs 2.2 lbs.

{STYLE IDEA}

This platter looks especially printing with this sugar bowl, this cream and sugar set and this canister. 

Antique Owen China Company Minerva Ohio Platter - Pink Floral circa 1906-1908
Antique Owen China Company Minerva Ohio Platter - Pink Floral circa 1906-1908
Antique Owen China Company Minerva Ohio Platter - Pink Floral circa 1906-1908
Antique Owen China Company Minerva Ohio Platter - Pink Floral circa 1906-1908
Antique Owen China Company Minerva Ohio Platter - Pink Floral circa 1906-1908
Antique Owen China Company Minerva Ohio Platter - Pink Floral circa 1906-1908
Antique Owen China Company Minerva Ohio Platter - Pink Floral circa 1906-1908