Before Napco became known for its ceramic novelties and iconic head vases, it was making things like this — quiet, considered pieces with genuine craftsmanship behind them.
This pedestal serving plate, stamped on the base "Original Napco China, Hand Painted, 1M2671," was made during Napco's earliest years in Bedford, Ohio (1938–1945), before the company pivoted to importing from Japan. The porcelain plate features a central arrangement of painted fruits — pears, grapes, peaches — surrounded by smaller fruit vignettes along the border, all finished with a hand-brushed gold rim that remains largely intact. It sits on a brass-tone metal pedestal that elevates it beautifully for display or service.
Also known as a Comport, today we use the terms Compote and Comport interchangeably, however, "Comport" is essentially an older, 16th-century variation and some collectors and antique dealers still search for "compote" for deeper, lidded vessels, and "comport" for these shallower, flatter vessels.
A striking centerpiece for a buffet, a fruit bowl for a formal table, or a gift for the collector of American mid-century ceramics. Napco pieces from this early domestic production period are far less common than their later Japanese imports.
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Maker: National Potteries Corporation (Napco), Bedford, Ohio (est. 1938)
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Era: 1938–1945
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Materials: Hand-painted porcelain on brass-tone metal pedestal
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Dimensions: 10" diameter; 3.5" tall
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Marks: "Original Napco China, Hand Painted, 1M2671"
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Condition: Very good vintage. Minor wear to gold rim in one area; no chips, cracks, or scratches.
