Bordallo Pinheiro Cabbage Platter Value Guide

The Bordallo Pinheiro Cabbage Platter is a masterpiece of Portuguese earthenware, originating from the historic Caldas da Rainha factory founded in 1884. This specific mid-century era piece is highly collectible for its whimsical trompe l'oeil style that elevates functional pottery into a naturalistic work of art.

What affects the value of Bordallo Pinheiro Cabbage Platter?

• Condition is paramount, as chips or cracks in the delicate ceramic edges significantly reduce the $110-$125 market value.
• The clarity and vibrancy of the green glaze and the precision of the hand-painted white veins affect desirability.
• Presence of original factory markings or era-specific stamps from the 1960-1980 production period.
• Overall size and scale of the platter, with larger serving pieces commanding the higher end of the price spectrum.

How to Identify Bordallo Pinheiro Cabbage Platter?

• Look for the distinct 'Bordallo Pinheiro' frog or leaf stamp on the underside, typically indicating its Caldas da Rainha origin.
• Examine the glaze for the signature vibrant, deep green hue that characterizes authentic Portuguese Majolica-style pieces.
• Check for the intricate, hand-painted white vein detailing that mimics the organic texture of a real cabbage leaf.
• Verify the weight and material; authentic examples are made of high-quality earthenware with a substantial, durable feel.

History of Bordallo Pinheiro Cabbage Platter

Raphael Bordallo Pinheiro founded his ceramics factory in Caldas da Rainha in 1884. He was a famous Portuguese artist and caricaturist who sought to capture the natural beauty of Portugal through functional pottery. The cabbage pattern remains his most iconic and enduring design, representing a whimsical approach to Majolica-style earthenware that has been continuously produced for over a century.