I read somewhere once that souls were like flowers... L. M. Montgomery 

{HISTORY}

Without a smidge of pattern space to spare, these gorgeous antique luncheon plates will fill your kitchen with so many flowers it will feel like you live in an ever-blooming meadow. Full of bright color, this set of six was made in Czechoslovakia between the years 1918-1921. That was the brief time in this interesting country's history when it was caught up in the Hyphen Wars and spelled Czecho-Slovakia. 

Imported to Philadelphia by Erphila, a cleverly named company founded by German immigrants Theodore Ebeling and Frederick Reuss in 1886, the ER stood for the first letter of each of their last names combined with PHILA - a shortened version of Philadelphia. 

Specializing in an array of dishware from many European potteries and countries, Erphila's catalog of wares included glass, art pottery, dishes, and giftware. Theodore and Frederick were known for their expert eye, flamboyant taste, and appreciation for unique designs when it came to tableware selection for the American market. That winning combination made Erphila a successful business for 106 years before the brand retired in 2002. 

It's no wonder that this floral pattern, known as Oxford, was appealing to both  Theodore and Frederick and their loyal customers too. They must have seemed like a breath of fresh air in comparison to more traditional luncheon plates that featured daintier designs and much less exuberant decoration.  

Such a favorite style of Erphila's, these all-over patterns came in other colorful bouquets as well with names like Chelsea, Dorest, and Eton. Now hard to find,  these rare pieces and these rare plates bring a bit of European history to the table with so much floral charm it will be difficult to decide whether you should decorate with them on the wall or put them to use on the table. Perhaps there's room for both! 

{SPECIAL FEATURES}

- Matching set of six luncheon plates

- Colors include purple, lavender plum, cranberry, pink, pea pod green and ivory

- Stamped on back with the Rphila mark and pattern name

{CONDITION}

In lovely antique condition. The purple rim around each plate is wearing in some spots. There are no chips or cracks except for one 1/4" inch chip on the back of one plate. Please see photos. 

{SIZE}

Each plate measures 9" inches in diameter and weighs 1 lb.

{STYLE IDEA}

These plates look really pretty with this chop plate platter thanks to a complimentary color palette.