A beautiful and increasingly collectible pair of antique American majolica plates produced by Griffen, Smith & Hill of Trenton, New Jersey.

These plates feature the iconic Begonia pattern introduced in 1879, part of the celebrated Etruscan Majolica line, known for its richly modeled botanical designs and vibrant glaze work.

The plates display overlapping begonia leaves radiating from a central rosette, rendered in high relief and finished in layered emerald green, moss, and warm umber glazes. The naturalistic leaf veining and color pooling exemplify the sculptural quality and depth that made GSH majolica among the finest American art pottery of the late Victorian period.

Founded in the 1860s, Griffen, Smith & Hill became internationally known for its innovative majolica and Etruscan wares, which rivaled the finest English majolica of the period.

Today, their botanical plates are sought after both by majolica collectors and interior designers for their dramatic texture and color.

These plates display beautifully on a wall, shelf, or cabinet and add instant historic character to traditional, English country, botanical, or maximalist interiors.

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Dimensions

Approx. 8.75 inches diameter

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Origin

Trenton, New Jersey
Circa 1879-1885

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Sold as a pair

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Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Very good antique condition.

* One plate has a very small ~1mm glaze nick in the middle
* No cracks
* No repairs
* Excellent glaze and color

Minor kiln and glaze variations typical of majolica production of this period.

Origin:
United States

Materials & Techniques:
Pottery

Details:
Country of Origin: United States
What type of item is it? Vintage / Antique / Used

Original Condition Unaltered; Some Imperfections; Very good antique condition.

* One plate has a very small ~1mm glaze nick in the middle
* No cracks
* No repairs
* Excellent glaze and color

Minor kiln and glaze variations typical of majolica production of this period.