Overview
A classic porcelain collector's plate featuring a vibrant male Northern Cardinal perched on a dogwood branch. This piece was part of a popular series commissioned by Avon to bring fine wildlife illustration into the American home.
Preliminary identification
Avon 'Cardinal' North American Songbird Plate by Don Eckelberry, 1974
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Story
In 1974, Avon transitioned from perfumes to porcelain, hiring world-class naturalist Don Eckelberry. He was so dedicated to accuracy that he once lived in a rainforest to capture birds in their true habitat.
Maker / Origin
Don Eckelberry was a titan of 20th-century ornithological art, illustrating over 14 books including the definitive Audubon Bird Guides. His partnership with Avon democratized fine wildlife art, making his masterful brushwork accessible to millions of households.
Condition & Value
The plate appears to be in excellent vintage condition with no visible chips or crazing. The gold rim shows minimal wear, which is vital for maintaining its decorative value. Excellent condition is standard for these as they were rarely used for dining.
Full Research
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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.
Market Analysis
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.
Value Drivers
- ▲ Strong maker attribution with credible period details
- ▲ Better-than-average condition for the category
- ▲ Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact
Concerns
- ▼ Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
- ▼ Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
- ▼ Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Comparable Sales
5 compsRegional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.