What is it that makes this chip carved plate so striking? Think back to some of the things I've shared with you in previous emails. Look closely at the plate and study it. Don't scroll down until you've identified a couple of elements that make it a real
beauty.
Here's what I observe:
There's nice balance between carved (negative) and uncarved (positive) space. This draws your attention to each element of the pattern.
Good shadows. The textured background helps accentuate the center region.
Apart from a few Swiss style chips, the majority is carved in Old World Style. OWS chips don't create as much shadow as Swiss style, so it's good that the carver textured the background.
Good technique. Consistent angles, good pattern layout.
Proper finish applied. The finish doesn't distract from the chip carving. Instead the good finish draws the viewer into the carving.
Simply
Beautiful!
p.s. If you know what country or part of the world a plate like this would come from, please let me know.
