Mounted on a bronze hanger so it can be hung as the work of art it is, this one has suffered no scrapes, hairlines, or chips and is one of the finest I've ever seen. Larger than most of these enameled trays, and signed by the enamelist, C F, the c.1700s scene of a gentleman surveying the art of the woman who holds her brush and palette. If you understand the process for these porcelain powder enamels, it is the most difficult art to master. To accomplish something in this detail and dimensional excellence is quite remarkable and would take many decades to achieve the skill level required. The plaque is copper, ruffled, then worked. That this one has been hung and not used as a tray or trinket/jewelry bin is also remarkable. C. 1890-1900. I think we have the enamelist name right, but if not, please email us. Museum quality.
Excellent condition throughout. So often kiln-fired enamels are damaged by mishandling, hairlines, cracks, chips in the same way fine porcelain might. This one has none of that. The special mount on back to hang it is its saving grace, as it has obviously never been used to hold anything, and has hung safely in display as the fine art it truly is. Raised while enamel work against the claret red on ripple border, all in fine order, too.
