Blue Plate

22 Jun, 2009 in art pottery by admin

Blue Plate

A Commemorative History Of Plates

When one thinks of plates they think of food. They only think of that round thing we eat off of. Plates are commonly made from ceramic materials such as porcelain and stoneware. Additionally they can come in plastic, and glass. They also come in paper form which was introduced to consumers in 1907. But plates don't only serve the purpose of enjoying exquisite cuisines. You can use them as a form of dedication and inspiration.

The Chinese was the first to discover porcelain. They started trading with Europeans in the early 1300's where porcelain items became the most requested item, specifically plates. At first European elite would trade with the Chinese porcelain but in the 1700's a German potter learned the Chinese process and made it their own. It wasn't until the 1800's when a European nobleman publicly displayed decorative plates with patterns full and vivacious colors that commemorative plates came into popularity. It became an inexpensive hobby for European nobles. Initially they used mostly blue and white colors featuring special events and local scenery. The collecting of these porcelain souvenirs exploded in popularity when the first limited collector's edition was released in 1895. It was called "Behind the Frozen Window" from a popular Danish company. Christmas decorative dishware became hugely in style in the early 1900's. It wasn't until the mid 1900's that European dishware influences became notably in the United States of America.

They were an instant hit. Big companies and the public alike were intrigued by the exotic dishware. The interest in collective dishware has dropped since then but still a popular collector's item. Traditionally commemorative plates were used to display unique designs and astonishing craftsmanship but in modern times they have transformed into much more.

Today, dishwares are embellished with lasting memories and dedications. They symbolize special moments in one's life. People like to capture those special moments on commemorative plates. Often used as a dedication to a loved one that passed away they can be used to signify other memorable events. One popular form was when President Barack Obama was elected the first African-American President. Memory dish wares with his image flew off shelves. The demand was overwhelming. Many companies offer special dish wares that you can use to honor your family members, a special event in history, a birth, or just for displaying engaging images.

About the Author

DiscountMugs.com is a large distribution company based in Miami, Florida. They are web-based and factory-direct which allows them to keep prices lower than the rest of the competition. They also have a huge selection of products from coffee mugs and travel mugs to commemorative plates and promotional pens. For more information on wine glasses visit Discount Mugs.

i have some blue willow plate how do i find out if they are worth anything?

If they are original blue willow they are worth money. Take them to an antique dealer or research them in antique books at the bookstore or library.

Diners, Drive Ins and Dives: Blueplate