This vibrant faience platter from the 1800s is an artistic tribute to France’s historical faience capitals. Produced by La Manufacture de Madame Veuve Dumas, the sophisticated imagery features three furled banners that read “Nevers”, “Rouen”, and “Moustier”.

In the center of the 20-inch diameter plate is a scene of three putti and a leashed goat. The color scheme is reminiscent of Delftware, with the monochromatic cobalt blue on white ground. A colorful ring of pale green with repeating yellow flamettes surrounds the cartouche, which is illegibly signed (possibly “HB”). A golden ring adorns the rim of the platter, encircling a lovely and elaborate Italian grotesque over white ground. Motifs include urns laden with fruit, peacocks, and rinceaux vines with flowers. Beneath each of the faience capital banners is a pair of winged chimera over dolphins that flank urns with a snake rising from each vessel.

Nevers, Rouen, and Moustier each had their own regional style, but together they are part of the larger tradition of French ceramic art. All three cities were influenced by Italian maiolica and Delftware, which explains the imagery and the color scheme. These cities flourished during the 1600 and 1700s, producing gorgeous examples of high-end ceramics, often catering to royals and aristocrats.

CONDITION: Good antique condition. Light nicks and fleabites. Minor craquelure with a superficial age separation. Very light buildup and rubs, mostly to the edges.