Can't ship between Mar. 30 and April 7.Vintage (probably antique) Majolica or Porcelain Trompe l’Oeil Butterfly on Leaf Plaque or Plate. Measures approximately 9 inches from the top of the stem to the bottom of the leaf and 8 1/2 inches side to side. The plate is approximately 3 inches high (meaning how far the butterfly rises from the bottom or extends out). The pale yellow, grey-green and black butterfly is exquisitely molded and painted. The leaf has veins and a bumpy texture with... ruffly edges. Its stem is formed like a twig. I cannot locate another plaque or plate like this one online though I have diligently searched. If you know something about this piece, please share your knowledge with me! I bought this from England in 2004. I bought it as "antique majolica, " but the truth is that this piece confuses me. It has a bright white reverse side like porcelain. Also, the butterfly glaze is not as glossy as I would expect it to be and not as glossy as the leaf glaze. I will describe all flaws--and all are minor. There is little crazing but I do see it on the elevated part of the turquoise upon which the butterfly wings rest. On the left hand side of the turquoise plate, I see glaze pops or inclusions which are shown in the last photo. There are a few tiny paint skips on the ruffle leaf edges. On the reverse there are 2 discolored slits: one is where the stem attaches and the other is at the bottom edge of the raised rim. The plaque or plate is not marked but has "296" inscribed under the glaze and the numbers are written in the European manner. My best guess is that it is French. I fell in love with majolica when I had a French antiques shop on Magazine St. in New Orleans (Passages). My husband and I collected oyster plates...after he died in our thirtieth year of marriage, I began to acquire butterfly pieces. Of course they are beautiful, but more significantly, I found some comfort in the amazing process of metamorphosis of the caterpillar into a butterfly. To me, it represents rebirth, restoration, life after life. My son and I even raised monarchs one summer. I am keeping most of my butterflies, but I do need to downsize. This is a particularly stunning piece! Shipped with USPS Priority Mail and additional insurance. Signature required.