These RETIRED plates are from the Norman Rockwell Heritage Series. Made by Edwin M. Knowles Fine China. No box or brochure with these plates but the Knowles Logo and Official Rockwell Society of America Seal on each place authenticates them as genuine limited editions.
"The series began in 1977 and was scheduled to end in 2006. The Heritage Collection consists of 30 beautiful plates in all and celebrates the history of America in the 20th century. The Heritage series pays tribute to the craftsmanship of the men and women who once created the every day goods we have always taken for granted." The descriptions for the plates are my own impression unless enclosed in quotes, which would be excerpts from the brochure.ALL PLATES ARE IN EXCELLENT CONDITION...
#RCH-1 The Lighthouse Keeper’s Daughter 1979, diameter 8 ½”
Of the Only Limited edition,
Permanently closed in 1979
Third in the Heritage Collection
Plate Number 19,437E
Edwin M Knowles
Bradex Number: 84-R70-.3.3
The older man waits patiently and looks with fond interest at his young daughter as she deftly uses the needle and thread. She appears to be mending his jacket for him. As with all of Rockwell’s art that elicits emotion, this one suggests a strong bond between the father and daughter.
The Ship Builder," painted in 1922 for the Literary Digest."
The seaman either active or retired is putting the finishing touches on a colonial type sailing ship.The red parrot may be waiting patiently for supper as he is looking in another direction. The small boy
with the cap seems fascinated by the mighty ship in front of him. The shipbuilder with his tattooed arm may have cut his bandaged hand with the knife that he used carving the wood for the ship. All three appear to be concentrating on something important.
The businessman, who is probably the boy’s grandfather, is the picture of success. Well dressed he relaxes in his easy chair in his well stocked library. His faithful dog rests on the floor. The man is explaining something to the attentive boy sitting on the footstool. He is writing something down which is probably an important point to remember. More than likely he is telling the boy to decide what he wants to be when he grows up, set, goals, work hard and never give up. He seems happy to share his wisdom with the young lad.
The painter apparently has taken time out from varnishing the floor to paint the small doll bed for the little girl. She will have to wait for it to dry but she is very appreciative of the favor. The painter feels a bit artistic in admiring his handiwork
First Edition, Fifth Design Issue in the Heritage Collection
Plate Number 19783W
Edwin M Knowles
Bradex Number: 84-R70-3.5
"The painting first appeared as a cover of Literary Digest magazine in the 20's. Rockwell's charming interpretation of an everyday happening; a moment shared by a man and a boy. Grandpa showing his grandson how he plays the accordion". Made by Edwin M. Knowles in 1981 and issued by The Bradford Exchange.
