I would like to get an idea on a fair market value for this mantle and if I did consider selling where is the best place to go with an item such as this.
It took awhile of research before I realized some things about this item. The plate has arabic writing on both sides of the central tower (which I could use translated). THose towers are prayer towers. I think the plate is depicting 2 different very important scenes in Islam: Mecca & Medina. The cubical building seen to the central area is the Kaaba found in Mecca. It is the location believed that Abraham first built a shrine, and the place where Muslims must take a journey, surrounding the Kaaba building in worship. Millions of muslims gather there every year. The building to the right of the Kaaba, I believe is the Grand Mosque of Mecca. Notice that it has only one story (which it has 2 now). That's helps us to date the item. Also the Kaaba, as represented here does not appear the same as it does now. The patterns of fabric are different. I found a late 1800's photo in which the Kaaba looks exactly like it does today. I also found info that stated that the coverings over the Kaaba have changed throughout the centuries. So, this could certainly help to date the piece. I don't think anybody in Islam would dare depict the most holy site quite different than it actually appears. The area to the left, I believe depicts the Prophet's Mosque and tomb in Medina. On the bottom of the plate is a diamond-shaped item. If I remember correctly, I found that to be an Islamic symbol. It's depicting a small carpet (can't remember the significance - possibly representing taking a pilgrimage). The metal work may help to decipher the place of production. It has etchings, piercings, and inlays. I've definitey seen etching and piercings similar to this from India, but that doesn't necessarily mean that it's from India. India does have an Islamic presence. However, these techniques could be regional and historic, and India is very close to the middle east. Therefore, there is quite a bit that I don't know and need help with. Dating the piece could be crucial to taking a guess on it's history. I don't know if this is outlandish, but the Spanish inquisition did include kicking muslims out of Spain. Some fled to the Americas after Christopher Columbus. If this plate could be that old, it could explain how it would end up in the hands of some mountain folks in Kentucky. Otherwise, I don't readily see a good reason for a pre-1880's Islamic plate's existence here.
Dainty antique Minton porcelain demitasse cup and saucer. Both pieces are accented with gold trim and handpainted flower designs. Both pieces are stamped on the bottom with the Minton globe and crown (used between 1873-1912) and "Manufactured for Chicago Spaulding & Co - Made in England" Excellent condition - never been used. Saucer measures 4 3/8". Cup is 3" in diameter and 1 1/2" tall.
Vintage silk heavy kimono blue with embroidered red crowned cranes and gold thread designs intermittent . Appears to be from the early 1900's. It is 5 1/2 ft long and sleeves extended 4 ft wide with reddish orange silk lining.
