Franciscan 'Trio' Cobalt Blue and Crimson Dinner Plates
Ceramic; functional dinnerware, round format • Franciscan Ceramics (by Gladding, McBean & Co. or later subsidiary ownership such as Wedgwood)
Style & Movement
Mid-Century Modern revival / Post-Modernist functionalism
Medium & Technique
Glazed earthenware; mass-produced industrial ceramic with solid-color reactive or satin glazes
Creation Period
Late 20th century (circa 1980s - early 1990s)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 10.75 inches in diameter; round format
Subject Description
Minimalist geometric composition featuring a bold bi-color design. The well of the plate is a vibrant cobalt blue, contrasted by a wide, deep crimson or burgundy rim. There is no figural narrative; the aesthetic value relies on the saturation of primary/secondary colors.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good; visible surface scratches, utility marks, and a prominent water spot or glaze wear mark on the front rim of the top plate.
Estimated Market Value
$40 - $60 USD for the set of 4
Auction Estimate
$20 - $40 USD
Provenance History
Likely commercial retail purchase; Franciscan was a staple of American domestic dinnerware. No specific collector provenance visible, though likely carries backstamps on the reverse.
Art Historical Significance
Represents the evolution of the Franciscan brand into the late 20th century, moving from its famous 'Desert Rose' hand-painted styles to modern, solid-color block aesthetics influenced by the success of competitors like Fiestaware.
Notable Features
Distinctive high-contrast 'Trio' or 'Spectrum' style color scheme; representative of the 1980s-90s Californian ceramic manufacturing aesthetic.
Condition Issues
Surface stacking wear, utensil marks/scratches, glaze dulling on the rim, and possible hard water calcification as seen on the bottom edge of the top plate.
Conservation Recommendations
Gentle hand washing with non-abrasive cleaners; avoid high-heat dishwashers to prevent glaze crazing or further scratching. Store with felt dividers between plates to prevent stacking wear.
Collector Notes
4 Franciscan dinner plates