This 19th century hand painted plate was made by the Meissen Porcelain Manufactory of Germany. The face of the piece has been decorated in the perennially popular 'Blue Onion' pattern, first developed by Meissen in 1739. The iconic design is based on imagery found on Chinese porcelain dating to the Ming Dynasty and features stylized cobalt blue decoration on a white field. The underglaze Blue Onion decoration on the face of the plate has been accented with gilded paint. The piece has scalloped edges and stands 1" tall to the top edge of the rim. The plate is 7.75" in diameter and the foot rim is 4" in diameter. The underside of the plate bears Meissen's cobalt underglaze crossed swords mark with pommels as well as what appears to be the number "85" followed by a series of dots. The piece is also marked with the impressed numbers "12" and "4". The plate is in very good condition and has no chips, cracks or repairs. As an antique item, the piece shows appropriate signs of age related use consisting of wear to the gilding at the rim of the plate. There are also some irregularities in the glaze including pinpoint pops and flecks of material which are caught in the glaze itself. These issues are related to the manufacturing process and do not detract from the appearance of the piece and are mentioned for accuracy. The plate weighs in at 8oz. This lovely plate displays beautifully and would be a great addition to a grouping of antique Meissen Blue Onion. If not used for serving food, this versatile piece can be employed as a decorative accent on a mantel or shelf, or in a china cabinet. Sure to add an elegant touch to your table or to your decor however it is used. Please note that the stand pictured in the photographs is not included with this listing.