Royal China Green and Gold Acid Etched Side Plates Set of 6
Product Description And Additional Pictures
We are offering this set of six (6) side plates measuring 7-3/8" in diameter, made by the Royal China company. These exquisite plates were most likely made in the mid to late 1930's, prior to the shortages and financial hardships brought about by World War II. Echoing the rich and opulent style of gilded age porcelain dinnerware, these plates feature a thick, acid-etched gold outer border in a repeating thistle pattern, with a 1/2" soft green verge border overlaid with a gilded swag pattern, and then an interior border of soft mint green bordered on either side by thin lines of gold.
Please examine our photos to see the rich detailing on these beautiful plates. The company’s porcelain artists used fine greenware blanks imported from Limoges, France; each plate is so thin that when you hold one up before your face, you can see the large circular Royal China stamp on the other side, as well as your own fingers. Beautiful!
These plates are in excellent antique / vintage condition, with only minute signs of wear. They were not used often, if at all, and it is highly likely that any small indications of wear came from stacking the plates without any protection. You will find no chips, cracks or stains on these plates, and we caution you against placing them in the dishwasher. The gilding on these grand old plates is no match for the high heat and harsh detergents in our 21st century dishwashers. A simple hand wash or rinse from time to time is all these plates need. And please don't use these plates when a knife is going to be necessary. They have survived 90 years without any utensil scratches, and it would be wonderful to give them another 90 years in their near-pristine condition! These plates will be sent to their new owner with appropriately sized plate protectors.
BRIEF HISTORY: “Royal China,” was the name of a popular and prolific pottery and china company located in Sebring, Ohio that became famous for its colonial-styled tableware. Founded in 1934, Royal China started in the aftermath of the Great Depression. According to popular legend, Royal China was initially run on such a tight budget that many of its employees worked for free until the company started making money. The company started production by making mostly inexpensive dishes to sell at dime stores or to give away as premiums at grocery stores. However, its wares quickly gained in popularity, and one of Royal China's early, popular patterns was the sturdy and attractive “Blue Willow” series.
