Color

Multicolor

Original Or Reproduction

Antique original

Status

Retired

This is a pair of late1800’s CFH GDM (Charles Field Haviland, Gerard Dufraisseix Morel of Limoges, France) small decorative serving plates. Each measures approximately 7” x 7” x 1” and has an attractive scalloped-like design at all corners. One plate is marked in green/gray CFH GDM. These plates continued to be manufactured after the McKinley Tariff Bill of 1890 which required products to be marked with their country of origin. These are the earlier product without the word “France” appearing beneath the letters. Both feature hand painted graphics of young males tending to oversized fruit (pineapple and tomato.) The plate with the tomato features an insect, perhaps a beetle, perched on the large fruit and 3 youths running for safety. Very cute. Both plates have gold paint around their perimeters. These plates are made from hard-paste porcelain which has a slight translucency when held up to light. High quality, durable material - for which Limoges, France products are famous. I have been told by relatives that these plates were never used by my ancestors; that they were only displayed behind glass and never exposed to direct sunlight. Their condition supports that claim as there are no cracks, chips, breaks or crazing. They are truly antiques and, therefore, the gold paint around the edges has accrued a patina over the decades. (Actually, I am not entirely sure if the slight inconsistency of the trim was unintentional.) Nonetheless, it beautifully complements the plates’ designs. There is plenty of gold paint incorporated in the pictures as well. Somehow, it manages to give it an appealing three-dimensional look. Price is for the pair. Not sold individually. They have been together for over 100 years and it would be ideal for them to remain together. Cash only. Pickup in New Hyde Park, Nassau County, Long Island.