Large antique enamel plaque of The Finding of Moses

The Biblical story of the Finding of Moses is a popular subject in Western art, and has inspired some of the greatest artists in history such as Poussin and Veronese. In this plaque the subject has been exquisitely rendered in grey, monochrome enamel against a striking electric blue backing.

In the original story the baby Moses was put into a basket in the reeds of the river Nile by his mother, following persecution by the ruling Egyptian Pharaoh. He was later discovered by the Pharaoh's daughter while she was bathing in the river. The plaque depicts the moment at which the Egyptian Princess, surrounded by her entourage, has discovered the baby.

The plaque is rendered in 'grisaille', a painting technique which uses only varying shades of the colour grey. Grisaille paintings therefore emphasise the play of light on figures and scenes, and present a naturalistic sense of depth. They are often used to imitate sculpture.

The plaque is set in an ebonised wood frame, and is signed 'A Paris Emailleur Rue de Paradis Poissoniere 47. Paris' and dated '1875' to the lower right.