Divided Serving Tray, Hand Painted Ceramic, Fruits, 7-Section, Rope Handles, Blue Woven Border, Italy, Vintage 1980s

Seven sections, rope handles, a blue woven border, and hand-painted fruits in every compartment — this Italian tray is as much a still life as a serving piece.

Made in Italy in the 1980s–1990s and hand-painted throughout, this large ceramic tray carries the exuberant color and craft that Italian pottery is known for. Seven individual sections each hold a different painted fruit; the border carries a blue woven or basketweave pattern all the way around; and the built-in handles are sculpted to look like twisted rope — a detail that rewards a closer look. At 16 inches long and 13 inches wide, this is a generous piece that works as an appetizer spread, a charcuterie tray, or a fruit display. Note: some areas on the blue border feel rough to the touch (fine nicks from use), and there is crazing in several areas — both consistent with handmade Italian ceramics of this era and shown in the photos.

Beautiful as a serving tray for a summer gathering, taco night, or a harvest table. Equally striking displayed on a kitchen wall as décor. A lively housewarming or hostess gift for the person who prefers their table set with objects that have real character.

• Maker: Made in Italy — hand-painted ceramic
• Pattern: Fruits — hand-painted, 7 sections; blue woven border; rope-look built-in handles
• Vintage: 1980s–1990s (estimated)
• Material: Ceramic
• Dimensions: 16" long (including handles), 13" wide
• Condition: Very good — rough areas on blue border (fine nicks from use); crazing in some areas; both consistent with handmade ceramics; shown in photos