Michel Design Works Botanical/Ornithological Decorative Tray
Decorative art, serving tray • Michel Design Works (founded by Bruce and Deborah Michel)
Style & Movement
Contemporary Homeware; Shabby Chic / Neo-Victorian Botanical style
Medium & Technique
Decoupage or lacquered print on wood/MDF; featuring digital reproduction of vintage-style botanical and ornithological illustrations with calligraphic script.
Creation Period
Modern/Contemporary, early 21st century
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 12 x 18 inches, rectangular horizontal format with raised sides and cut-out handles.
Subject Description
A collage-style composition featuring various songbirds, evergreen branches, red berries, and deciduous leaves interspersed with elegant cursive handwriting and calligraphic signatures (including 'George'). It evokes the aesthetic of 19th-century naturalist journals or scrapbooks.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good to Very Good; visible light surface wear consistent with functional use.
Estimated Market Value
$20 - $45 USD
Auction Estimate
$10 - $25 USD (likely sold in a lot with similar decorative items)
Provenance History
Mass-produced contemporary retail item; likely purchased through upscale gift shops, department stores, or home decor retailers.
Art Historical Significance
Represents the trend of 'Lifestyle Brands' in the late 20th and early 21st century, where historical motifs are repurposed for high-end mass-market domestic goods. It lacks significant art historical weight but holds value as a popular example of modern interior design trends.
Notable Features
Signature use of deep green lacquer on the tray rim; incorporation of 'antiqued' script to suggest provenance that is actually part of the modern graphic design.
Condition Issues
Minor surface scratches; potential for delamination or heat rings if used for hot beverages without protection; some dust accumulation in hand-holds.
Conservation Recommendations
Wipe with a soft, damp cloth only; avoid abrasive cleaners or prolonged exposure to direct sunlight to prevent fading of the printed inks.
Collector Notes
Michel Dedign Works