Floral Center Medallion Porcelain Plate with Gilt Scale Border
Decorative art, porcelain ceramic plate • Manufactured by Vista Alegre, Portugal
Style & Movement
Traditional European porcelain design, neoclassical revival decorative arts
Medium & Technique
Hand-painted polychrome enamel on glazed white porcelain with applied gold gilding and intricate scale-pattern texturing
Creation Period
Mid to late 20th century (circa 1950-1980)
Dimensions & Format
Circular plate, approximately 8 to 10 inches in diameter
Subject Description
A circular porcelain plate featuring a central polychrome bouquet of botanical floral motifs including a prominent pink tulip, purple flower, and delicate smaller blossoms, surrounded by a scalloped inner border and a wide yellow and gold fish-scale textured rim.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Very Good. The glaze appears bright and reflective with intact polychrome enamel colors and well-preserved gilding along the borders.
Estimated Market Value
40 USD - 120 USD
Auction Estimate
30 USD - 80 USD
Provenance History
Produced by the historic Vista Alegre porcelain factory in Portugal, likely acquired as part of a formal tablescape service or decorative cabinet display collection.
Art Historical Significance
Representative of mid-century Portuguese ceramic manufacturing excellence, highlighting Vista Alegre's high standards of porcelain painting and gilding techniques derived from classical European traditions.
Notable Features
Exquisite gold-gilded scale (fishscale) pattern on the rim combined with a finely detailed, multi-colored central floral spray enclosed within a scalloped cartouche.
Condition Issues
Minor surface wear consistent with light use or display, no major chips, cracks, or visible losses to the enamel or gilding noted from visual inspection.
Conservation Recommendations
Hand wash only using mild soap and warm water if cleaning is necessary; avoid abrasive scrubbers and do not place in a dishwasher or microwave due to the metallic gold gilding.
Collector Notes
Vista Allegre Portugal