One of 2 from the same exceptionally talented Limoges enamelist, (the other offered separately), this is a gentleman of stature at table, reviewing a crown-monogrammed letter or document in hand, surrounded in luxurious furnishings and fabrics, foil-backed to add depth and shimmer to the portrait. Beautifully crafted, fine composition and the palette in enamels is opulent, some with foil backing to add shimmer and shine. The convex copper plaque is antique, dating late 1800s to perhaps earliest 1900s, and is unsigned. Plaque alone is almost 8" x 6". Full measurements noted on the photos. The frame shows off the plaque, but it is a modern frame and has a facing of metal.
Very good to excellent condition for age and type. The foil-worked enamel is excellent! The frame is not original, not antique, and is metal and wood, and I think should be replaced with an antique, but it displays the enamel well. You see how it is made from the back, corners. The plaque is large and surprisingly free of damage since kiln-fired enamels are rather fragile - like porcelain melted onto metal, which is what it is - amazingly pristine, not even a hairline. You know how I love kiln-fired French enamels, though you might not know how I respect the artists, artisans who could truly master this most arduous fine art. I've tried it - I can see that it would take decades as a hardworking apprentice to finally become a Master. This very large Belle Epoch (c.1890-1915) plaque is a favorite from my collection. Found in Germany, The plaque is immense by typical standards - in her original wood frame, 10 1/4" tall and 8 1/2" wide. I do not find a signature, and the notation on back seems to be a collection designation. I purchased 3 from a collector who spent a lifetime collecting Limoges enamels. This is 1 of those. I will be listing the other 2 today, also. Watch for those and our other fine enamels, all sold separately.
