Elegant Grand Tour souvenir, a masterfully crafted kiln-fired enamel tray or wall hanging from the enamelists of Limoges, France. Long history of this very difficult art, these pieces remain rather rare and dear. This one is not perfect, but in fact the flaws are primarily on edges of backside and don't detract from its use in display. The very appealing price makes up for them, and we can suggest a professional enamelist if you wish to have some restoration work done. The focal point on the 6 1/4" x 5" and 1" deep tray is that portrait miniature of a Renaissance Musketeer or Cavalier. Very nicely done, gold against the bright red on the ruffle rim. I do love and greatly appreciate this fine art - enamelist's talent is unparalleled. The artist here has signed the work simply with initials, which we've shown for your review. A few enamels shown alongside this one in our final photo to help you wish size and like object comparisons. This type date mid 1800s, 19th century works in the artistic period known as "Orientalism" - a popular realistic art that gave way to the Impressionists a bit later.
Very good condition for age and type, though it is not excellent. It does display well, no bad losses to the front or face of the work. The portrait of Musketeer which is its centerpiece is completely undamaged and is fabulous. The losses are primarily on back sides of the ruffle outer edge. One area of front rippled rim, upper right, shows hairlines, but only in certain angles of light. We're not sending it for enamel restoration, but if you feel you want that done, we will share contact info for our enamelist with the next owner of this one. Instead, we're pricing it lower, passing along a fun buy perhaps for someone not quite in the 'pristine' ranges yet. Lots of photos, everything is visible for review.
