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Description
This is an incredibly rare, possibly unique, eglomise souvenir card tray depicting the Paris Exposition Universelle of 1867 offered in superb condition.
The central eglomise is beautifully hand painted in reverse on glass depicting the approach to the main arena of the 1867 Expo including the Pont d'Iéna bridge over the Seine.
This central glass panel is exquisitely and very accurately detailed with added fluttering 'tricolore' and a passing paddle steamer. The colours remain vibrant and cleverly executed allowing the windows to have shiny reflections from the gilt back panel.
The surrounding 8 eglomise panels are (from the left):
Arc de Triomphe
Palais Bourbon
Pont Neuf over Seine
Palais Brongniart
Pantheon
Obelisk of Luxor in Place de la Concorde
Eglise de la Saint Marie Madeleine
Notre Dame, Paris
All of the paintings are in superb condition with very little evidence of any loss at all, with the ormolu mounts remaining bright, highlighting the featured landmarks.
The central panel measures 4.75 inches (12cm) wide, the surrounding 8 panels all have a diameter of 1 3/8 inches (3.5cm).
The 4 feet and handles are all in good condition, the central base card cover is loose and a little torn and there is some expected very light tarnish to the ormolu mounts. Please see detailed photos to appreciate the amazing condition of this very rare (if not unique) piece of souvenir ware.
