Hand Painted Italian Plate

Details

Description

This is a colorful, hand-painted ceramic plate with a lively fruit motif.

Front Design
• Imagery: The plate is decorated … Read more This is a colorful, hand-painted ceramic plate with a lively fruit motif.

Front Design
• Imagery: The plate is decorated with a central cluster of fruits, painted in bold, natural colors. Grapes (purple), pomegranates (yellow and pink), peaches, figs, cherries, and blackberries are all visible, surrounded by lush green leaves.
• Style: The painting has a loose, expressive brushstroke style, giving it a rustic yet vibrant look typical of Mediterranean ceramics.
• Border: The edge of the plate has a yellow-and-black rope-like painted rim that frames the composition and adds a decorative finish.

Back Markings
• The underside of the plate shows handwritten numbers and symbols in brown glaze:
• “115” (possibly a model or painter’s code)
• “247” (likely a production or pattern number)
• Additional short strokes or marks, which may be workshop identifiers rather than a signature.
• The back is otherwise plain, with a ring of unglazed ceramic along the footrim showing wear from use.

Interpretation

This plate appears to be Portuguese or Italian majolica/maiolica-style pottery from the mid-to-late 20th century. The fruit motif is a traditional theme in Iberian and Mediterranean ceramics, symbolizing abundance and hospitality. The markings on the back suggest it was hand-painted in a workshop, with codes to identify the painter or series rather than a retail mark.

It’s decorative but also functional, often used as a wall plate or centerpiece. The vibrant fruits and rustic brushwork make it particularly striking as a display piece. See less