Manufacturer: Shenango China
Pattern name: Aeronautica
Date of plate: Circa 1950

{"arrow":"false","pagination":"true","speed":"1000","autoplay":"true","autoplay_speed":"2000","loop":"true","slide_to_show_3d":"2","slide_show_ipad_3d":"2","slide_show_tablet_3d":"1","slide_show_mobile_3d":"1","slide_to_scroll_3d":"1","auto_stop":"false","centermode_3d":"true","space_between_3d":"0","depth":20,"modifier":20,"img_rotate":0,"img_stretch":0}

{"animation_fancy":"zoom-in-out","transition_fancy":"fade","fancy_box_loop":"true"}

Notes: This plate captures the mid-century American atomic-era design vibe. Its contemporary fine line drawings that evoke fish and sea life seem to have Alexander Calder influences that also bring to mind his wire sculptures and mobiles.

The design is executed on a plain white plate in lime green, pink and blue.

The name is known from the Shenango catalog page, shown above, with the following description of the pattern:

"Acclaimed by designers wherever it has been shown, Aeronautica is a contemporary pattern that will appeal to all moderns.
"Aeronautic is essentially original rather than imitative and belongs in a contemporary dining room which caters to discriminating guests.
"The graceful Coupe shape enhances and is a part of the total appeal of Aeronautica."

The backstamp could date from 1930 to 1948, but it is likelier to be closer to the latter date range. And the catalog page, while not dated, was found with another dated 1953. The hand lettering on the back of the plate probably indicates that this piece was a sample.

Contributors:
Plate photos: Annaliese Whipple
ID, catalog photo: Leona Montag