Serving Platter, Edwin M. Knowles Normandy, Hand-Painted Quimper-Style Figure, Underglaze, USA, Vintage 1951

There is something quietly extraordinary about a piece of American pottery that looks like it was painted in the French countryside.

The Normandy pattern — introduced by Edwin M. Knowles and offered through the Montgomery Ward Spring/Summer 1952 catalog — draws directly from the Quimper tradition of hand-painted folk figures in traditional dress. This platter features the woman figure: white bonnet, traditional clothing, rendered in underglaze hand-painting directly on the ceramic before firing. It came to us with a decorative wall hanger already attached, suggesting its previous owner treasured it as much for display as for use — and we've left the hanger in place for anyone who wants to do the same. The platter itself is in very good vintage condition; only slight wear on the backstamp. Knowles was in business from 1900 to 1963, building a reputation for quality that outlasted the company itself. Hand wash only.

A wonderful gift for the Quimper collector, the folk art enthusiast, the Francophile, or anyone who loves American pottery with an old-world spirit.

• Maker: Edwin M. Knowles China Company, Newell, West Virginia (1900–1963)
• Pattern: Normandy (Quimper-style figure; 1951)
• Era: 1951
• Materials: Ceramic, underglaze hand-painted
• Dimensions: 12.5" long × 10" wide (oval)
• Note: Decorative wall hanger attached; included as-is
• Care: Hand wash only
• Condition: Very good vintage. Slight wear on backstamp only. No chips, cracks, or scratches.