Historical information

This gilt plate is from an era where master crockery manufacturers where either located in Britain or Europe.The cost of transportation and the time taken to receive items limited the availability of first class goods. This was an era that was "British is best" in all manufactured goods. With the slow influx of European immigrants European manufactured goods also became of high value. This social requirement was more of a prerequisite for the more affluent rural population, especially at a time when Australia "rode on the sheep's back". Fine British and European goods were a "status symbol", even in rural Australia. After World War II, the invasion of American and Japanese merchandise opened up the market place for cheaper "throw away" items. Longevity and quality of goods fell away as the "throw away" society rolled on.

Significance

This item demonstrates the time when the rural sector was at its most affluent and influential in dictating the strong ties between Australia, Britain and Europe. The very influential "Country Party" ensured that the protection of the rural sector was well entrenched. The ability of the "well off" rural sector, in this period, were not only able to travel abroad but also to purchase expensive items "overseas" cutlery and crockery. The significance of this item is that it highlights a period in time when the "rural" affluence was at its peak.

Physical description

This hand painted floral gilt plate is a cream fluted china plate decorated with pink and yellow orchid flower arrangement. It is in the "Art Nouveau" period 1880-1920.

Inscriptions & markings

underneath and within the circular base and in gold freehand script "4" underneath "1562". Pressed into the base is the manufacturer's monogram.Circled around the FAM mark is "* FRANZ ANT. MEHLEM*BONN A/RHEIN*"