Sheffield Imperial Rose Dinner Plates
Decorative Art; Set of 4 Dinner Plates • Sheffield (Imprint brand), manufactured in Japan; Produced by a commercial ceramic manufacturer for the American or European export market.
Style & Movement
Mid-Century Traditional / Neo-Victorian Revival; characterized by soft pastel floral motifs and romanticized European-style ceramic forms.
Medium & Technique
Porcelain or fine china with overglaze transfer-printed floral decals and silver-tone (likely platinum) rim gilding; slip-cast body with embossed scalloped edges.
Creation Period
Late 20th Century, approximately 1970–1985
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 10 to 10.5 inches in diameter; circular format with scalloped edges.
Subject Description
The plates feature a central white well surrounded by a wide rim decorated with a continuous spray of pink and white roses with sage green foliage. Small white filler blossoms are interspersed. The edge is scalloped and features a scrolled, embossed textural element under the silver trim.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good to Very Good; plates show minor silver loss on the rim (gilding wear) and light surface stacking scratches, but no visible chips or cracks.
Estimated Market Value
$20.00 – $40.00 for the set of four
Auction Estimate
$10.00 – $25.00 for the set of four
Provenance History
Mass-produced dinnerware originally distributed by the Sheffield brand (known for importing Japanese china). Likely originating from a residential household collection.
Art Historical Significance
Represents the post-WWII rise of high-quality Japanese ceramic exports that catered to Western middle-class tastes for formal dining sets. While not unique art pieces, they reflect the globalization of the 20th-century decorative arts industry.
Notable Features
Features the 'Imperial Rose' floral pattern; distinctive scalloped border with embossed scroll work; backstamp typically includes 'Sheffield', 'Made in Japan', and 'Dresden Style'.
Condition Issues
Visible wear to the metallic silver/platinum rim; minor peppering (small dark spots from firing) common in mass-produced china; light utensil marks on the glaze surface.
Conservation Recommendations
Hand-wash only to preserve remaining silver trim; avoid abrasive cleaners and microwave use; use felt dividers when stacking to prevent further scratching.
Collector Notes
Sheffield made in japan 4 dinner plates