Pair Old Paris Porcelain Allegorical Plaques Depicting Joys and Sorrows of Love

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Pair of Old Paris Porcelain Allegorical Plaques Depicting the Joys and Sorrows of Love

A finely executed pair of hand-painted … Read more Pair of Old Paris Porcelain Allegorical Plaques Depicting the Joys and Sorrows of Love

A finely executed pair of hand-painted Old Paris porcelain plaques, France, circa 1870s, depicting complementary Neoclassical allegories celebrating the emotional duality of love. One plaque portrays two classically draped maidens in an intimate exchange, one presenting a bird—an enduring symbol of affection, fidelity, and the soul. The companion plaque depicts a veiled female figure embracing and consoling a sorrowful companion, an evocative representation of mourning, remembrance, and enduring devotion.

Together, the compositions form a poetic narrative often explored in 19th-century French decorative arts: the Joys and Sorrows of Love. The subjects draw inspiration from the sentimental Neoclassical imagery popularized by artists such as Angelica Kauffman and widely adapted by Parisian porcelain decorators during the first half of the nineteenth century.

Each oval plaque is exquisitely painted in polychrome enamels and set against a burnished gilt ground framed by a rich magenta reserve highlighted with delicate geometric ornament. The vibrant purple border was among the most fashionable and costly decorative colors employed by Old Paris workshops and provides a striking contrast to the luminous gold backgrounds.

The plaques are presented in handsome custom oval frames dating from the 1960s, incorporating gilt églomisé mirrored surrounds, brass bead trim, and painted wood moldings. While later than the plaques themselves, the frames complement the romantic character of the compositions and provide an elegant presentation suitable for both traditional and contemporary interiors.

A rare surviving pair combining literary sentiment, refined porcelain painting, and sophisticated decorative appeal.

Overall Measurements: 19" H x 15" W x 2" D
Plaque Measurements: 10" H x 7" W

Frames: Custom églomisé and wood, circa 1960s. See less