Impressive antique Viennese enamel tray by Ludwig Politzer

This plate is a very fine example of the exceptional painted enamel wares being produced in Vienna at the end of the 19^th century. Of a delicate size, the tray is adorned with scenes from classical mythology.

The tray comprises a central octagonal panel, surrounded by eight shallow panels that alternate in size. Each of the nine panels is delicately painted with a classical scene, and the quality of craftsmanship is extremely fine. The artist has employed a naturalistic colour palette, with the swathes of pink, blue, purple, and yellow robes creating a degree of unity between the scenes. The content of the painted scenes can be gleaned from the underside of the tray, where the subject of each vignette is inscribed in French. The predominance of classical myths and histories as the subjects evidences the favour for Neoclassical themes at the time.

Alongside the titles, the underside of the tray features further intricate detailing: set on a pastel pink ground, each section is filled with grey floral sprays and scrolling designs. The artist has also added swords, vases, lyres, and other objects relevant to the scene on the counter-side – a charming, and thoughtful touch.

Each panel is ensconced within an ormolu border, engraved with a refined intertwining design. Adorning each corner of the outer panel is a painted enamel mask, in the form of a cherub with colourful red and blue wings. The two shorted sides are applied with twin scrolling handles that employ the same red-blue colour scheme.

The bronze surrounds are stamped in multiple places with the initials ‘LP’, for the maker Ludwig Politzer (1841-1907). Politzer was one of the most important Viennese enamel specialists of the era, making artefacts in the Renaissance Revival style, also known as Historismus – that developed in the final decades of the 19^th century in tandem with a growth of national identity in German-speaking Central Europe. His works were highly popular, exhibited at the World Fairs in Paris in 1878 and 1900, and Politzer himself was appointed Imperial Court Jeweller. Today, his masterful works can be found in the most important international museums of decorative arts, such as the V&A.

With no detail forgotten, this highly impressive tray is a very rare and special item for any collector of antiques.