Elite Limoges Floral and Gilded Cranberry Cabinet Plate
Decorative Art / Ceramic Service Member • Elite Works (Bawo & Dotter), Limoges, France
Style & Movement
Belle Époque / Late Victorian Rococo Revival
Medium & Technique
Hard-paste porcelain with polychrome transfer-printed floral motifs, hand-painted gold gilding, and acid-etched or stencil-applied gold scrollwork over a cranberry/magenta ground
Creation Period
Late 19th Century to Early 20th Century (Circa 1896-1920)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 8 to 10 inches in diameter; Circular format with scalloped edge
Subject Description
The plate features a scalloped rim with heavy 'molded-look' gold gilding. The verge is decorated with a continuous garland of multicolored spring flowers including roses, daisies, and forget-me-nots. The center well is characterized by a wide cranberry-colored band overlaid with an intricate 22k gold geometric interlaced scroll pattern (guilloché style), framing a plain white center reserve.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good to Very Good
Estimated Market Value
$45 - $85 USD
Auction Estimate
$30 - $60 USD
Provenance History
Based on the owner's information, the piece carries the 'Elite Limoges' mark. This mark belonged to Bawo & Dotter, a New York-based importing company that established its own decorating studio and factory in Limoges, France, to cater to the high-end American market.
Art Historical Significance
Represents the peak of the 'Limoges' porcelain craze in the United States during the Gilded Age. Elite Works was significant for bridging French manufacturing with American taste, specifically specialized in 'whiteware' that was decorated both in France and by professional and amateur artists in the US.
Notable Features
The contrast between the vibrant cranberry band and the delicate floral border is a hallmark of the more expensive Elite Works patterns. The heavy 'beaded' or 'crusty' gold edge is a distinctive 1900s aesthetic feature.
Condition Issues
Visible rubbing and minor loss to the gold gilding on the high points of the scalloped rim. Potential fine surface scratches (utensil marks) in the center white well. Some fading of the floral transfers consistent with age.
Conservation Recommendations
Hand wash only with mild detergent; avoid abrasive sponges. Do not use in a microwave or dishwasher due to the high metal content in the gold gilding. Display on a felt-padded plate stand away from direct, high-heat light sources.
Collector Notes
Elite Limoges France