Q: This plate with a pierced scalloped edge was a recent gift to me. I love it. These two marks are on the back of the plate. I’d like to know who made it and how old it is. Can you tell me anything about it?
A: The first mark, a crown over a rampant lion, was used by the Carl Schumann Porcelain Factory of Arzberg, Germany. The company was in business from about 1881 to 1994. The second mark, a crown over “E & R,” was used by Ebeling & Reuss, importers located in Pennsylvania. Ebeling & Reuss was founded in 1866 and remained in business until about 2002. This particular mark was used beginning in about 1954. Bridal Rose is the name of your plate’s pattern. The pattern was made with either a plain or pierced gilt border (your plate’s border is pierced). The Bridal Rose pattern was probably made by Schumann specifically for Ebeling & Reuss. Most European china imported by Ebeling & Reuss dates from before 1976, so your plate was probably made between 1954 and 1976. Value of your plate: $25-$30.