Limoges Elite Works Scalloped Cabinet Plate with Floral Garlands and Maroon Border
Decorative Art, Hard-paste porcelain plate • Elite Works (Bawo & Dotter), Limoges, France factory
Style & Movement
Neo-Rococo / Belle Époque Victorian Decorative Art
Medium & Technique
Hard-paste porcelain with polychrome transfer-ware, hand-painted enhancements, and 24k gold gilded highlights (acid-etched/encrusted technique).
Creation Period
circa 1896-1920 (Belle Époque period)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 8.5 to 10 inches in diameter; circular tondo format with a shallow well.
Subject Description
The design features a central white well surrounded by a wide maroon/cranberry circular band adorned with gold filigree. The fluted, scalloped rim is decorated with delicate pastel floral garlands (roses, daisies, and lavender sprigs) and finished with a heavy gold beaded edge.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good to Very Good; shows signs of age-appropriate wear to the gilding particularly on the high points of the scalloped rim.
Estimated Market Value
$40.00 - $85.00 USD
Auction Estimate
$30.00 - $60.00 USD
Provenance History
Based on the owner's description of 'Elite France', this piece originated from Bawo & Dotter's porcelain factory in Limoges. Likely part of a larger dinner service or a standalone cabinet plate passed through private domestic collections.
Art Historical Significance
A representative example of the Limoges porcelain export boom to the American market during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Elite Works was highly regarded for their technical precision in combining mechanical transfers with hand-finished gilding.
Notable Features
Distinctive scalloped 'molded' rim; fine contrast between the deep maroon 'crimson' band and the delicate floral transfers; bears the 'Elite France' backstamp which identifies the manufacturer.
Condition Issues
Visible rubbing/thinning of the gold gilding on the outer rim; minor surface scratches in the maroon glaze; possible kiln dust or minor inclusions original to manufacture.
Conservation Recommendations
Hand wash only with mild soap; avoid abrasive cleaners or mechanical dishwashers. Display away from direct sunlight to prevent long-term glaze micro-crazing and store with felt separators.
Collector Notes
Elite France Limoges France