Preliminary identification
Photo reference
3 uploaded photos
Overview
This exquisite square-oval porcelain plate features the 'Gras' (Grass) pattern, designed by the legendary Finnish modernist Tapio Wirkkala. It showcases delicate, whisper-thin etched grass blades rising from a textured, gilded base of golden droplets on a pristine white porcelain body.
Story
In 1961, Rosenthal launched its revolutionary 'Studio-Linie' to bring avant-garde art into everyday homes. Finnish design pioneer Tapio Wirkkala used this plate to capture the quiet, fleeting beauty of Nordic lakeside reeds frozen in winter ice.
Maker / Origin
Tapio Wirkkala was a giant of Scandinavian design, famous for working with glass, wood, and porcelain. His collaboration with the German manufacturer Rosenthal lasted over three decades, resulting in some of the most iconic, organic-modernist tableware of the 20th century.
Condition & Value
The plate appears to be in excellent vintage condition with no visible chips, cracks, or crazing. The delicate gold detailing along the bottom edge shows no obvious signs of rubbing or wear, which is crucial for maintaining its value. Value is driven by the highly collectible nature of Tapio Wirkkala designs for Rosenthal.
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.