And there's pansies; that's for thoughts... (The words of William Shakespeare's Ophelia in Hamlet)

{HISTORY}

Throughout literature and Greek mythology, pansy flowers have represented, thoughtfulness and nostalgia. When it comes to the kitchen, their thinking-of-you charm has long made them a favorite subject for serving pieces ranging from platters to teapots, cups to baskets, trays to tins and anything else that invites sharing a special moment with others. 

In sentiment, this vintage cake plate is no different. It features shiny gold filigree, six scattered blossoms and embossed swirls all of which lead the eye toward the center masterpiece - your delicious freshly prepared dessert meant for sharing. 

The loveliest thing about patterned cake plates is that they are really two joys in one. First,  there is the cake of course, but then as you slice away, serving each piece, the flower imagery appears at the bottom of the plate making your whole baked goods presentation even prettier the more slices you take away. 

This plate does not contain any maker's marks or manufacturing details other than an impressed number which appears to be the number 57A. Was it made in 1957? Perhaps!  That also might be a mold or pattern number for the plate design itself. Those uncertain possibilities make this plate is a bit of a mystery as to its age and province. It could be an antique piece from Germany or a vintage one from a pottery plant in America. Either way, speculations aside it's a beauty that fits in with dishes made two years ago just as well as dishes made 100 years ago. 

Just imagine a chocolate layer cake topped with fluffy marshmallow frosting. Or a sunshine sponge cake decorated with fresh fruit tucked between real-life pansy flowers. Or a marbled blueberry cheesecake that picks up the blue and lavender shades of the blooms tucked underneath. All cake plates are loaded with possibilities. including serving other types of food too. This one would be especially pretty for serving cheese and crackers, tea sandwiches, and homemade cookies as well. 

{SPECIAL FEATURES}

- Colors include blueberry, lavender, plum, butter yellow, peach, mint green, gold, eggplant, and parsley

- Contains handpainted gold flourishes around the handles and embossed detailing around the rim consisting of swirls and swags

{CONDITION} 

In beautiful condition, there are no chips cracks, or stains on the plate. There is a small series of chips on the backside inner ring of the plate where it meets the tabletop surface. That is a sign that this cake plate served up something wonderful during many a gathering, but they are insignificant to the overall integrity of the plate as a whole. The gold filigree on the front is wearing on some areas due to age. The glaze is shiny and bright and the filgree still retains lots of shimmer when it catches the light. 

{SIZE}

Measures 10" inches (diameter) and weighs 1.5 lbs.