Art Nouveau Silver-Plated Metal and Glazed Ceramic Pen Tray, 1890s

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Period: 20th century Style: Art Nouveau Condition: Good condition Material: Ceramic Length: 7 x 14 cm Reference: 1597436 Availability: In … Read more Period: 20th century Style: Art Nouveau Condition: Good condition Material: Ceramic Length: 7 x 14 cm Reference: 1597436 Availability: In stock "Art Nouveau Silver-plated Metal And Glazed Ceramic Pen Tray – France, Circa 1900" Antique French Art Nouveau Silver-Plated Pen Tray with Glazed Ceramic Inset (c. 1900) Dimensions: 14 cm (length) × 7 cm (width) Materials: Glazed ceramic and silver-plated metal Origin: France Period: Circa 1895–1910 Condition: Very good antique condition with light age-related wear; no visible maker's marks : A rare and elegant Art Nouveau pen tray, finely crafted in France around 1900. The piece features a vibrantly glazed ceramic inset, showcasing a stunning orange-to-green gradient with subtle crackle effects. The surface treatment is reminiscent of Japonisme-inspired glazes popular among French ceramicists of the period, possibly linked to workshops in the Limoges or Sèvres region, or studios such as Léon Lachenal or Montières. The ceramic is mounted in an exquisitely detailed silver-plated frame, shaped with flowing leaf and vine motifs in the unmistakable Art Nouveau style. The organic curves and naturalistic forms reflect the influence of artists such as Hector Guimard and Louchet Frères, known for combining metalwork with decorative ceramics during this period. Its compact, elongated form makes it ideally suited as a pen tray or desk accessory, though it could equally function as a jewelry rest, match or cigarette holder, or calling card dish. Features: Finely modelled silver-plated frame with asymmetrical leaf appliqués Original high-gloss ceramic inset with crackled glaze A classic Art Nouveau blend of naturalism and elegance Unsigned, but clearly of studio or small workshop production Tested silver-plating (confirmed, not pewter) Context: Unmarked pieces of this quality were often produced by French boutique ateliers or sold through high-end department stores like La Samaritaine or Le Bon Marché, without bearing signatures. The fusion of ceramic and silverplate aligns with decorative works by WMF, Lachenal, and Montières, as well as the export ceramics influenced by Japanese glaze techniques and form. Condition Report: Silver-plated mount shows a soft antique patina, consistent with age Ceramic insert is intact, with no chips, cracks, or restoration Minor surface wear as expected for an object of this period No hallmark present, but craftsmanship is of clearly high standard Collector Appeal: An exceptional find for collectors of: Art Nouveau decorative arts French ceramic-silver hybrids Writing accessories and pen trays Japonisme and fin-de-siècle design See less