Geoff,
A good example of a "patriotic plate" to be sure, and at that price, extra nice! Many, many plates of this type were produced during the years 1914-1918, by German porcelain houses both large and small. Two of the larger firms that crafted these lovely collectors items were Meissen, and KPM of Berlin. These two companies made some of the finest porcelain objects produced in Germany, starting way back in the 1700's.
The Iron Cross was a very popular motif for plates of this kind - let's not forget the status of the cross was much more significant during the First World War. For an EM to receive one of these beauties, either second and especially first class, meant he really had to bust his cajones in some exemplary manner. Therefore, we can easily see the choice of this particular theme.
I don't believe the two openings were meant to facilitate hanging in any way, mearly decorative devices. I heard some people refer to these twin-openings as 'handles,'
but I think that's a misnomer, too. Closer to the mark would be the term reticulated. These reticulated patterns run the gamut from a pair of simple apertures like yours, to designs of the most intricate kind, somewhat like the fine Austrian doilies that we found on our Grandmother's wingchairs and furniture. Some of this work is truly amazing to see firsthand ...
To display it, any of those inexpensive plate hangers would do quite well and be more than sufficient. Does it sport a makers mark of some kind, a blind-stamping or inked mark of some kind? I'd be happy to try to identify the maker for you, if it does - I'd venture to say KPM ... but whether marked or not, it certainly looks good to me, too.
Lively, bright colors, great condition and a very fair price - you can't ask for more than that!
Thanks for letting us have a look Geoff, hopefully we'll get to see some other fine examples that belong to fellow members ...
Best!
Bill
