Scars have the strange power to remind us that our past is real. Cormac McCarthy

{HISTORY}

With this platter, at first glance, you can't help but notice the bright florals. Vintage and antique dishes that contain the color purple are always a delight to discover as it is definitely the hardest shade to find in kitchens of the past.

Sometimes though it's not only the most visible aspects that make a dish unique. Sometimes it's the hard-to-see details that really make it stand apart. In this case, the purple and yellow roses are augmented by embossed laurel wreaths on the left and right side of the dish. The wreath is wrapped up in ribbons that reach out to the roses giving added texture and dimension to the platter while also complimenting the shape of the scalloped rim and the embossed dots that ring it. 

This platter is also interesting in its weathered patina which suggests life and adventure and maybe a dramatic dinner or two. There are a few pit marks, some light stains, and some scratches on the transferware. Around here, those types of sights make us wonder about the history that has occurred around this dish. Since it is unmarked on the back, all sorts of possibilities come to mind about where it has been and with whom. Did it live through the Dust Bowl era in America? World War II in Europe? Maybe the famous San Franciso earthquake or the devasting Chicago fire? Or perhaps it immigrated to America, knocked around by boat, wagon or automobile - a sole reminder of life back home. That's the beauty of dishware from the past, especially pieces that visually hint at love and life and use. The most simple pieces can tell the most interesting stories. 

{SPECIAL FEATURES}

- purple and yellow rose bouquets

- scalloped edge

- embossed detailing

- unmarked as to maker or manufacturer

{CONDITION}

This platter is in well-loved condition. There are scratches in the floral bouquets, seven pencil point size pit marks randomly scattered around the front of the dish, and four spots affected by light staining. Having noted those flaws, when presented altogether this dish is quite charming in its overall aged appearance. Please see photos for details. 

{SIZE}

Measures 11.75" inches (length) x 8.5" inches (width) and weighs 1.5lbs

{STYLE IDEA}

Dishware that carries an aged patina often looks stunning when displayed on a wall as opposed to being a functional server in the kitchen. This platter would be lovely for such a design choice. Its petite size makes it a great candidate for areas above a door frame or in the backsplash spot by the stove or even just a display piece sitting pretty in a glass cupboard or an open shelf.