Q: I have 12 divided blue and white plates that say “Made in Japan” on the back. Do you have any idea of the value of these plates?

A: Divided plates like yours are called “grill plates” and the pattern of your plate is a famous one called “Blue Willow.” Grill plates were popular from the 1930s to the 1950s. They have divisions that keep meat, veggies, and potatoes separated. Willow pattern dishes, picturing a bridge, willow trees, birds, and a Chinese landscape, were first made in England in the late 1700s. Since then the pattern has been copied by factories in other countries and it is still being made. Blue is the most common color, but the pattern has also been made in other colors. Value of your plates: about $100 for all 12.