Antique Grand Tour Card Tray Tazza Seven Eglomise Paris Scenes

Antiques : Grand Tour Eglomise Paintings Card Tray

 

I am presenting to you this beautiful and unique card tray from the 19th century. Also known as a tazza it was designed to hold calling cards in the proper Victorian home.

This piece was probably taken home by some wealthy 19th century tourist doing the European "Grand Tour" as was the custom then. This tazza would have been a memento of one's visit, and a reminder of some of the sights visited.

The tray has a central oval eglomise painting (hand painted on back of glass) of a Parisian building displaying French flags. This is surrounded by six more eglomise paintings, circular in shape, of famous Parisian buildings and monuments. I should have paid better attention in my French history class.

The paintings are set into the card tray, made of bronze. The tray has four legs and two circular handles. The entire top is fringed in tiny bronze or brass "tassels".

The tray measures 7 1/4" by 5 1/2" and stands 2" tall. The central picture measures 2 1/4" by 1 1/2" and the surrounding paintings have a 1 1/8" diameter.

The paintings are in fairly good antique condition with hardly any paint loss and are quite clear. The tazza needs a good polishing if you want it shiny but some prefer the antique look so I will leave that up to you. There are four brass "tassels" missing, barely noticeable, but mentioned for accuracy. Here's your opportunity to purchase a good quality period piece at a great price.

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Item ID: 00431