The "I" mark on back of each of these 11 fish plates tells us that they were made by Haviland, (LIMOGES) between 1894 and 1931, when another mark began to be used. The over stamp mark is that of plate decorators, and the set is decorated from a transfer pattern that is then hand painted. There are pairs of 2 of 5 of the fish patterns, and then one single of the fish that looks like a sturgeon. I've added in an enlarged image of the one, and enlargements of the paintings of the others for your review. Each plate is rimmed in gold and has a mossy filagree-like patterned trim in the border. Wonderful color palette on this set. Great for cabinet or for use. The plates are each 8.5" in diameter.
Very good condition for age and type, there are light signs of use. I can see a faint utensil line across one or two, and that's about all. No chips, no cracks, no hairlines. I wish we had that 12th plate, and a tray to match, which is how the set would have originally been marketed, along with the likely addition of a matching sauce boat. As they are: a lovely old painted set from one of the best French makers.
