Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
This striking octagonal ceramic platter showcases the whimsical, highly collectible design language of MacKenzie-Childs. It features a hand-painted central landscape depicting the company's historic Aurora, New York estate, framed by their signature black-and-white Courtly Check pattern, a floral border, and a twisted rope rim in purple and green.
Story
In 1983, Victoria and Richard MacKenzie-Childs transformed a historic dairy farm in Aurora, New York, into a whimsical design empire. This platter depicts that very estate, celebrating the birthplace of their iconic, joyful aesthetic.
Maker / Origin
Founded by Victoria and Richard MacKenzie-Childs, the brand became legendary for its eccentric, multi-patterned, and hand-decorated home furnishings. Operating out of a scenic estate in the Finger Lakes region, the studio employed local artisans to hand-paint each piece, ensuring no two items were ever exactly alike.
Condition & Value
The platter appears to be in excellent condition with no visible chips, cracks, or crazing in the glaze. The gold luster detailing along the octagonal frame remains bright and unworn. Excellent condition like this commands a premium from collectors.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.