Category - Plates
Ceramic Quartz Plate from Turkey
Exquisite artistry, hand-made in Turkey. This UNESCO-supported, family-operated company has been producing works of art for hundreds of years, passing on talents from one generation to the next. They are masters of their craft and use the finest materials. The clay is mixed with quartz for strength and durability, unlike most other ceramics. The vibrant colors that are used in the designs are pigments derived from natural stones, giving them a unique hue. The depictions on this piece span time from the era of the Sultans. Owning a piece is to touch history and admire the work of today’s artists, it will certainly enhance your home and bring a glow whenever it’s admired. It measures 16” in diameter.
24-carat Gold Etched Carbon Plate from Spain
In Toledo, Spain, only a handful of artisans retain this time - honored craft, which has been passed on through the generations. Carbon plates are hand-etched and filled with sterling silver and 22kt gold threads to create one-of-kind masterpieces of artwork. Each thin thread is placed with fine tools and pressed into the carefully carved plate, bringing to life an artist's depiction of events in history, floral arrangements or scenery. No matter the design, one is always awed by the unique artistry, which will be forever enjoyed. It measures 4.5” in diameter.
Wooden Inlay Tray from Spain
This octagonal tray, 17" in diameter, was found in Grenada on our travels through southern Spain. The artist in the store was the father. While standing with a tweezer in his hand, he glued and placed hundreds of paper-thin wooden pieces on the tray. It was then lacquered for durability. The patience, artistry and technique used in making this tray, as well as all the other items this man produced, are truly a gift. It was late in the evening, and he was still working his craft for any visitor to watch. Few of us could imagine doing this. The earth tones are calming and soothing to look at. The detail is amazing. This piece spoke to us, we had to bring it back.
24-carat Gold Rim Ceramic Plate from Spain
This wall tray of ceramic and 24k gold paint around the edge was designed, made and displayed in the family store in the historic district of Seville. The technique, like so often, is handed down from generation to generation. It had almost met its end when the son was not interested in learning this incredible craft. The father and other family members produced these one-of-a-kind masterpieces, and the son managed the shop. After seeing similar works by other local families, we had to return to this one family, as they had the finest craftsmanship. The charming, friendly shopkeeper (the son) recognized us by now, and on our last night in Seville, the father came to the shop as was usual. It was a family affair—the father & son and us with our sons. The father was so proud to tell us that his son had finally agreed to learn and start making these beautiful plates. This man could now rest easily because his son would carry on this wonderful tradition of pottery-making. The circle of life was complete. The genuineness of these people is what also makes their work so special. Your home will surely be more special if you own something from them. It measures 11.5” in diameter.
Grand Serving Platter from Italy
While traveling in Italy with all of our 5 sons, we visited the small city of Orvieto, Italy. Perched on a rock cliff, it was a sunny, warm day when we happened upon a small family-owned and operated shop. The ceramics they produced were as amazing as the tunnel system and cathedral that we visited in Orvieto that day. They produced the most vibrant and colorful pottery we have seen thus far. This oversized (18" in diameter and 8 lbs) serving platter burst with lemons and vibrant green and blue colors. This tray is crafted in ceramic and fired in a kiln by a family that has been in business for generations and sells it in their very small shop. 10 family members produce these works of art that are useable dinnerware, carry on a family tradition, and maintain a livelihood for all of them. This is a piece to adorn and brighten any table that is set with it.