This item is a vintage Blue Willow pattern divided grill plate, often referred to as a "blue plate special" plate in the mid-20th century. It is manufactured by McNicol China of Clarksburg, West Virginia, a company known for durable restaurant ware. stamped label is pictured Key Characteristics Pattern: The classic Blue Willow design is a chinoiserie pattern that originated in England in the late 18th century but was inspired by hand-painted Chinese porcelain. It is characterized by a romantic legend of two star-crossed lovers, which is depicted through various elements in the design. Design Elements: The plate features the traditional Blue Willow motifs: a large willow tree, a bridge with three figures, a teahouse (pagoda), a zigzag fence, a boat, and two birds in flight at the top. Structure: It is a round plate with three divided sections to keep different foods separate. These plates are made of heavy-duty porcelain or ironstone, designed for the rigors of restaurant use in American diners during the 1920s and 30s. Condition: The plate is in fair vintage condition with a bright, shiny glaze, though the rim has a significant chip. The Legend of the Blue Willow The picturesque scene tells a story of forbidden love: The Pagoda: The home of a wealthy merchant whose daughter, Kwang-se, fell in love with his clerk, Chang. The Fence: Built by the angry father to keep his daughter locked away after discovering the affair. The Bridge & Boat: The path the lovers took to escape across the water. The Two Doves: The lovers were tragically caught and killed, but the gods transformed them into two turtle doves, forever united and soaring above the willow tree.
