Pa. German Scraffito Plate c. 1941

This Pennsylvania German "scraffito" plate, created in 1941 by Aaron Fastovsky, exemplifies a traditional folk art form. The plate features a central motif of stylized tulips, a common element in Pennsylvania Dutch art, and a heart with the numbers "1816" inscribed within. The decorative elements, created through a "scraffito" technique, are achieved by applying a layer of slip (a mixture of clay and water) onto a base layer of clay, then scratching through the slip to reveal the base color. This process creates the intricate designs, showcasing a characteristic style of Pennsylvania German ceramics. The plate is a testament to the artistic traditions of this cultural group and the enduring legacy of Fastovsky's work.