With their clean lines and quiet elegance, these platters bring a touch of postwar Italian modernism to the table. These two generous Laveno ironstone platters pair a classic white glaze with softly shaped corners and neat molded rims.
One deep, one shallow, they bring pleasing proportion to a dresser, dining table, or kitchen island. Their fine web of glaze crazing and warm patina lend the charm of a well-loved Italian home. Sold together; one bears a stamp apparently dating it to April 1948.
Measurements
Length × width × height:
Larger, deep dish: 16.5 × 10.5 × 2.5 inches / 41.9 × 26.7 × 6.4 cm.
Smaller, shallow platter: 15.5 × 10 × 1 inch / 39.4 × 25.4 × 2.5 cm.
Condition
Vintage condition with extensive glaze crazing, scattered warm discoloration, minor chips, and surface wear consistent with age and use. The white glaze has acquired a softly mellowed character—beautiful for those who prefer their vintage pieces with a little history showing. Please examine the photographs for details.
History of the Maker
Founded in 1856 on the shores of Lake Maggiore, Società Ceramica Italiana of Laveno became an important name in Italian ceramics, producing both everyday tableware and celebrated artistic designs. These platters belong to its practical service-ware tradition. The eagle backstamps identify the factory, with one carrying its historic “Verbanum Stone” trade name. Guido Andlovitz directed the company's design aesthetic at the time these pieces were produced.
Ways to Use
The larger dish is ample enough to serve a roast chicken. However these pieces have great versatility beyond traditional service. Arrange citrus or whole walnuts in the deeper dish, or gather linen napkins in the shallow platter for holiday entertaining. Display them upright on a dresser, use one to corral perfume bottles on a vanity, or create a centerpiece with small bud vases. A thoughtful gift for the host with a beautiful home—and a weakness for Italian things.
FOR BUYERS RECEIVING SHIPMENTS IN THE UNITED STATES: The policy regarding import duties on goods shipped to the U.S. from the EU has changed multiple times in the past two years, and therefore we cannot predict if you will have to pay a duty to your post man or at your post office to receive your package. We continue shipping to the U.S. so that you still have access to the unique items we source.