Regency Painted Tole Tray with Chinoiserie Decoration, English or French

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Regency Painted Tole Tray with Chinoiserie Decoration, English or French, circa 1800

A finely hand-painted Regency-period oval tole tray, decorated … Read more Regency Painted Tole Tray with Chinoiserie Decoration, English or French, circa 1800

A finely hand-painted Regency-period oval tole tray, decorated in the witty Chinoiserie/Singerie tradition. The surface depicts a series of fantastical monkey-like figures dressed in European costume, performing playful circus acts with small dogs, drums, and hoops. At the center is a basket overflowing with flowers, framed by scrolling foliate ornament in the neoclassical taste. The tray is edged with a pierced gallery border and gilt banding, typical of the period.

The decoration belongs to the whimsical tradition of singerie (from the French "singe," meaning monkey), a popular motif in 18th- and early 19th-century decorative arts in which monkeys or hybrid figures were shown dressed as humans and engaged in playful activities. Far from mere fantasy, singerie was a witty form of social satire, poking fun at human vanity and pretension by presenting animals or animal-like creatures imitating our behaviors. On this tray, the lively figures perform circus-like acts, blending humor with refined artistry—a charming combination that appealed to both French and English Regency taste.

This example survives with a desirable, aged craquelure surface and traces of gilt, giving it great decorative character. It may be displayed as a wall piece, used for serving, or set atop a stand as a small occasional table.

Dimensions:
Overall: 24" W x 18" D x 1.75" H
Interior surface: 22" W x 16.5" D x 1" H

A rare survivor, marrying Regency elegance with the wit and satire of the singerie tradition. See less