...handpainted dinnerware on the square... (from a 1950s Weil advertisement 

{HISTORY}

Weil ware. That was what the beautiful handpainted dishes produced by Weil of California were called.  One of their most popular patterns was this one - Malay Blossom made in the 1940s and 1950s and featuring handpainted flowers and a square shape. Available in four contrasting mix and match colors combinations, Malay Blossom backgrounds included ivory, celadon, gray and bittersweet (a deep espresso brown).

When they debuted, the square shape was quite modern combined with a soft color palette and a exotic motif that conjured up scenes of Asian jungles and tropical landscapes. Made with English and American clays along with California Talc, these dishes feel like thick handmade pottery but are lighter in weight like traditional dinnerware. Each dosh was handpainted under the glaze ensuring that the colors would never fade and the blossoms would look as fresh as the day the dish was made. 

This Malay Blossom dinner plate has traveled the decades well. Its colors are vibrant and beautiful and thanks to its square shape it retains still a very contemporary aesthetic that fits in well with modern dishware.

Vintage advertsisement courtesy of The Salt Lake Tribune, April 1949

{SPECIAL FEATURES}

 - Square shape

- Colors include butter yellow, seafoam green, espresso brown, bright white and soft medium grey

- Unmarked on back with the exception of a stamped number 3 and a small smudge - mostly like the Weil Ware mark

{CONDITION}

In lovely vintage condition. There are no chips or cracks. There is lots of crazing on both the front and the back which gives this plate a whole new layer of authentic aged patina.

{SIZE}

Measures 9.75"inches x 9.75" inches and weighs 1.7lbs