Antique Limoges enamel plaque in gilt metal frame

This beautiful Limoges enamel plaque is contained by an ornate velvet and gilt metal frame, the easel-backed frame crowned by an elaborate laurel wreath. The plaque portrays a scene in the 18^th Century manner, both in terms of content and execution. Two ladies are seated on a bench reading a letter held in their hands as a suitor—presumably, the letter writer—observes surreptitiously from behind a tree. The trio are situated within a pleasant, pastoral landscape, with a fine chateau visible in the distance. The painterly style is fluid and expressive, while the colour palette employed is defined by pastel Rococo shades. The painting is signed lower right ‘Dorval’.