Fantastic Cats Series (Indigo and Amber Cats)
Decorative art, specifically a ceramic charger/plate • Laurel Burch (1945-2007)
Style & Movement
Contemporary Folk Art / Ethno-Pop
Medium & Technique
Glazed ceramic with underglaze hand-painting or transfer-printed design with overglaze finish; features gold-line or bright enamel accents
Creation Period
Late 20th Century (circa 1990-2007)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 10-14 inches in diameter; circular tondo format
Subject Description
Stylized, anthropomorphic felines characterized by geometric shapes and vibrant colors. The composition includes turquoise and indigo borders decorated with Greek key-style spirals, a black polka-dot rim, and cats depicted with almond-shaped eyes and whisker details. The imagery reflects the artist's signature 'Mythical Creatures' series.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Excellent; the glaze appears glossy and vibrant without visible crazing or chips in the displayed portion
Estimated Market Value
$40.00 - $85.00 USD
Auction Estimate
$30.00 - $60.00 USD
Provenance History
Likely a high-end commercial retail production from the artist's lifestyle brand distribution; widely sold in boutiques and galleries across the United States
Art Historical Significance
Laurel Burch was a self-taught artist whose work bridged the gap between folk art and commercial design. She is credited with creating a unique visual language that popularized bright, whimsical animal motifs, which became globally recognized and highly collectible during her lifetime.
Notable Features
Features the distinct hand-signed 'Laurel Burch' script signature on the lower right of the rim's decorative border; distinctive use of high-saturation palette (turquoise, indigo, orange, and gold)
Condition Issues
None visible from the photograph; however, ceramics of this type are prone to utensil marks and edge chipping
Conservation Recommendations
Avoid abrasive cleaning; hand wash only to protect the glaze and signature; display using a rubber-coated plate stand to prevent stress fractures