An early to mid 19th century kiln-fired enamel, "Limoge" enamel work by the artisans of Limoges, France. Wonderful scene of a Cavalier coming to court and being chased out of a young woman's bedroom by maids and servants. Kiln-fired enamel work is, in my opinion, one of the most difficult arts to master. It takes many years for an enamelist to gain expertise, and apprenticeships can last decades before one could achieve an enamel such as this one. I've done it, myself while working toward an MFA, and it's a matter of having the kind of mind that can remember which very slight variation of mauve to muddy pale blue to creamy white glaze goes where and will turn into what upon melting in the kiln. Nothing looks like anything as you work the 'painting'. It is only when it comes out of the kiln after firing (melting the enamel powders into the glassine surface you see here) that you get to see what the image is. I so admire the enamelists who do master it.
Very good to excellent condition for age and type, the convex enamel plaque hasn't a bit of damage to it. So often there are hairline cracks or chips. They're a bit fragile as porcelains would be. This one is superb. It has been paired with a frame that really does show it off and is appealing, and is a Japanese antique metal frame. Yes, it says so on the easel stand mount on back. But it works, doesn't it. Full measurements are noted on the photos.
