Hand Painted Nippon Cherry Blossom & Geometric Gold Gilt Plate
Nippon (Likely Morimura Bros/Noritake predecessor) · Collectibles & Antiques > Porcelain & China

Era / Decade
1891-1921 (Nippon Era)
Material
Fine translucent porcelain with hand-applied moriage (raised enamel) and 24k gold gilt accents.
Condition
Very Good. Visible wear to the gold gilt on the outer rim and some loss of detail on the raised hand-painted elements. No visible chips or cracks.
Demand Level
Moderate to Niche. There is a dedicated base for Nippon collectors, but the market for fine china is currently soft compared to mid-century modern items.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$25.00 - $55.00
Estimated Retail Value
$150.00 - $200.00 (Adjusted for modern equivalent of hand-painted fine china)
Comparable Sales
Similar single Nippon floral plates with heavy gold borders typically sell for $30-$45 on eBay. Plates with more complex 'Moriage' or scenic designs can reach $60+.
Description
Exquisite antique Nippon porcelain plate featuring a hand-painted cherry blossom and ribbon motif. The border is decorated with a detailed geometric pattern in heavy gold gilt. This piece displays the classic ‘Moriage’ technique with slightly raised enamel details. Perfect for cabinet display or as part of an antique porcelain collection. Diameter is approximately 6 to 8 inches (standard bread or salad plate size).
Key Features
Hand-painted authenticity, genuine 'Nippon' era marking (implied by style), heavy gold gilding, and the desirable combination of floral and geometric motifs. High appeal for Nippon collectors.
Authenticity Indicators
The style of the hand-painted flowers and the specific geometric gold border are hallmarks of pre-1921 Japanese export porcelain. Confidence: High (assuming the 'Nippon' green or blue maple leaf / M-in-wreath mark is on back).
Flaws to Note
Significant rubbing/fading on the gold rim edge. Minor stacking scratches in the center well. Some 'flea bites' or manufacturing pinholes may be present on the underside.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
Etsy (best for vintage/antique), eBay (highest reach for collectors), or Ruby Lane. High-end local antique malls.
Selling Tips
Use keywords like 'Antique Nippon,' 'Moriage,' 'Hand Painted,' and 'Gold Gilt.' Photograph the backstamp clearly. Ship with double-boxing to ensure safety. Highlight that 'Nippon' indicates manufacture before the 1921 McKinley Tariff Act change to 'Japan' markings.
Notes
Hand painted Nippon