BACKGROUND:
So many aspects of the small dish or coaster make this just a bit special ...
Produced HERE in Australia, not even using blanks from overseas suppliers, Australian Fine China have been "around" for a very long time, perhaps many may know them as Calyx Porcelain which began operations in the early 1920's, and while changing their name a couple of times, they eventually became known as Australian Fine China in 1992. Just like their English counterparts, competition is fierce in the ceramics & porcelain industry and in 2006 all production was moved offshore.
This small dish is an example of the many Wildflower Series coasters, small plates and mugs series that the company produced in the period 1995 ~ 2005, all made in Australia.
These Australian Fine China products are distinctive due to the featuring of significant Australian wildflowers, in this case they feature the Northern Territory official flower, Desert Rose or the full name is Sturt's Desert Rose. This flower also features on the territories flag and coat of arms.
But wait there's more!
The floral design was created by none other than the well known West Australian natural history illustrator and artist, Philippa Nikulinsky. She actually designed the complete Australian Wildflower Collection series.
AUSTRALIAN FINE CHINA (Western Australia) - Coaster or Small Dish
Made in Australia ("Dinky Di" Aussie ceramics!)
Circa 1995 ~ 2005
Semi-translucent (you can see a bright light shone through the ceramic, just!)
Pattern: Desert Rose Wildflowers
Product code: 974
Material: Ceramic (although the backstamp declares it is porcelain)
White coloured china base
The design features the Desert Rose, official flower of the Northern Territory
Although I do not believe this has been hand decorated, the artwork is slightly raised above the ceramic and not just your standard "transferware"
No Gold gilding has been used
Measures 104mm diameter x 13mm deep
Comes with the original gift box
BACKSTAMP DETAILS:
Here is a photograph of the backstamp
COSMETIC CONDITION:
USED
CLEAN
NO cracks at all
NO discolouration to the White base colouring
NO knife cut scratching or markings to the central area of the dish
NO chips
NO damage or wear to the decorative artwork
NO crazing is evident (both dry and wet tested)
The lime Green backstamp is a little hard to read but does confirm the heritage of the piece
The original outer gift box is in reasonable condition, the only real downside is on the front, top right hand corner where a retail price sticker used to be ... it was removed quite roughly and so took some of the print with it.
I have now packed this coaster within a sealed clear plastic to maintain the current condition.
