A good way to understand a design that appears to be complicated or complex is to break it down into smaller components. This one could be divided into two parts, the natural floral border and the interior motif with rosette.

Because of the configuration of the scalloped edge, the border is easily divided into twelve segments. Each segment repeats a flower with leaves.

The interior has a gothic rosette as a focal point deeply carved in contrast to the rest of the work. The interior rosette is flanked on four sides with a triangular stylized motif contrasting with the floral notion of the border. This kind of contrast makes for a more interesting overall piece. The interior section is ringed by a small button and dart border.

This may not be the simplest of designs but when you break it down into it’s individual parts it’s really not that complicated.

The complete pattern for this plate and other photos pertaining to it may be found in my book entitled "New and Traditional Styles of Chip Carving". This particular carving was featured in the winter 1997 issue of Wood Magazine published by Better Homes and Gardens. It is also part of the my collection on special exhibition at the Swiss National Museum in Zurich, Switzerland.