Expert: Martin G Roberts - 7/29/2007

Question
Hello Mr. Roberts,

My brother, a Gulf War veteran, was stationed in Germany early in his military career. He received this plate as a gift from a young woman who said it had been in her family for at least 6 generations that she knew of.

The plate is 11 inches wide and has what looks like hand etching of small flowers around the bowl area. There is also a portrait (again it looks like hand etching, and is raised) of a nobleman or explorer-looking gentleman (he looks like Ponce de Leon to me, but who knows).

My brother, having broken off with the woman, gave the plate to me some years ago, and I'm curious as to the origin and value, if it is authentic, and if not, why the heck would "1619" be engraved below the portrait.

There are no other markings on the back at all. There is a small lip with a hole in it that is built into the back of the plate, for hanging I presume. That's it.

Please, if you have any questions, feel free to email them to me before you give your evaluation. I can send you a photo too, if you like. I would've sent one now, but I don't have one on hand.

Thank you for your time,
Tari Jordan  

Answer
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Most unlikely to be early 17th Century. From the description, I would suggest c1900 as more likely. Verbal provenance from families is generally to be disregarded - each generation tells the next about their heirlooms, as stories to amuse kids, and before you know it the 100 year old bit of decorative repro is said to be late medieval!

If it was c1619, it would be valuable, and not the sort of thing one would give away. It would also have a maker's mark.

Why engrave "1619"? Commemmorative, perhaps, or just fantasy.

However, if you want to send photos to stynt@btopenworld.com I'll comment as to confirmation or otherwise of this opinion.

Martin
www.antique-metalware.co.uk