18th C French Faience STRASBOURG HANNONG Platter 12 in. Plat c. 1730

Pottery : Antique : Faience : French : 18th Century

 

One of a very rare, matching pair of very early Strasbourg faience plates, Hannong factory, circa 1721-50. This is the smaller size, the 12 inch Plat. The platter is signed "HK", with a dot above the H, on the underside. An old dealer's sticker is also seen, the accuracy of which is questionable, as explained below.

A nearly identical pair of platters dating from the earliest period of the factory, under its founder, Charles-François Hannong (1669-1739), is exhibited at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs, in the Palais Rohan, in Strasbourg. It is very likely that our pair of platters also date to the period of Charles Hannong, circa 1721-1732. Shown for comparison are my last two photos of similar pieces on exhibit at Palais Rohan, which I photographed there in 2005. (Further ref. Guilleme-Brulon.)

Of lobed form and decorated with the traditional lambrequin motifs (taken from the laces and embroideries of the period), the platter is accented with a central cartouche with a bird and a pear amongst foliage. The style is similar to the work at Rouen during this period, when the grand feu technique was at its peak. Only later would the Hannongs create the petit feu technique which first allowed for pastel enamel colors.

Dimensions: c. 12 1/2 X 10 1/4 in. (32 X 26 cm)

The platter is in good condition for its age, with crazing and a professional restoration to an area faintly visible on the lower left side, as shown in the images. The glaze is still thick, smooth and shiny. This is a fine example of the early production at Strasbourg, of particular interest to the advanced collector. See also the matching platter, listed separately.

Item ID: 0707-02