Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
A porcelain collector plate produced in 1977 by Gorham Fine China featuring Norman Rockwell's iconic illustration 'Shear Agony' (also known as 'Summer - Shear Agony'). The image depicts a classic, humorous scene of a young boy receiving a reluctant haircut on a porch, complete with a dog resting nearby and subtle gilded rim accents.
Story
First published as part of Rockwell's popular 'Four Seasons' calendar illustrations in the 1950s, this nostalgic scene captures the quiet humor of small-town American childhood. Gorham produced this limited-edition porcelain series during the height of the 1970s collector plate craze.
Maker / Origin
Gorham, best known for its legendary American silver production starting in 1831, expanded into fine china and collectibles in the 20th century. Norman Rockwell (1894–1978) was America's most famous illustrator, renowned for capturing everyday mid-century American life on the covers of the Saturday Evening Post and annual calendars.
Condition & Value
The transfer print and gold gilding appear intact with no obvious chips or cracks visible in the photos. Metal wire plate hangers can sometimes scratch the back or edge, so careful removal is recommended. Excellent condition helps retain basic collectible value.
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.