Tray in Black-Lacquered Papier-Mâché with Polychrome and Gilt Chinoiserie Decor, Napoleon III Period, Circa 1860

The tray in moulded papier-mâché presents a raised, curved edge pierced with two openwork grips. On the black-lacquered ground unfolds a polychrome chinoiserie scene enhanced with gold: a seated dignitary in a blue robe receives servants and musicians around a green trellis balustrade, punctuated with flowered vases and incense burners. A border of rocaille cartouches, fans and gilt sprigs frames the composition.

This type of lacquered papier-mâché tray, a technique perfected in England then adopted by French manufacturers, reached its peak under the Second Empire: the Napoleon III taste for chinoiserie and glossy black grounds made it a must of drawing rooms, placed on a base or hung as a picture.

Condition report: Good overall condition. Sound lacquer with well-preserved decor, small wear and rubbing from use at the border, gilding slightly faded in places. An elegant serving or presentation tray, also superb hung on the wall of a living room or an entrance hall.