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Overview
A vintage round papier-mâché tray with a red lacquer finish and a chinoiserie scene in gold and black. Five figures fill a garden setting: one runs across the grass, one sits on a low bench holding a fan, two stand talking, and one sits cross-legged near a small box, a vase and a basket. Behind them are buildings with tiled, curved roofs, a tall pagoda tower and a curtained pavilion, set among gold bamboo and foliage. A gold border of feathery scrolls and small dot clusters runs around the raised rim, and the reverse has a plain red finish. It comes with its wooden display stand, so it is ready to show on a shelf, mantel, sideboard or in a display cabinet.
Background
Lacquered papier-mâché trays decorated with chinoiserie scenes were made in Europe and Asia through the 19th and 20th centuries, and red-ground trays with gilt figures are a well-known type. This tray is unmarked, and its maker, place and date of manufacture are unknown. It is light, molded papier-mâché with a painted and lacquered finish.
Condition
Pre-owned with damage. There are several areas of loss along the outer rim, with chips that expose the brown papier-mâché underneath, most visible from the reverse and at the lower front rim, and a short crack at one rim chip. The decorated face has scratches across the scene, a few small paint losses, and wear to the gold on the figures and buildings; the reverse has scratches and surface wear. The main scene is still clear and displays well, and it is best suited to display rather than serving. No repairs are known. Please see all photos.
Dimensions & Weight
The tray is about 10.2 inches in diameter and weighs about 10.4 oz on its own. The wooden display stand, about 6 inches tall, is included.
Shipping
Free standard shipping within the US, packed securely.
