Porcelain Lithophany, 19th Century

Delicate original porcelain lithophanie, made in Germany in the 19th century. This piece is signed and numbered on the back, a detail which provides it with high value ant testifies for its authenticity. This is a plate of beautiful making and smartly framed, whose delicacy goes together with its perfect condition to make up a really special piece. Lihophanies are molded and etched plates made of translucent porcelain, which were mainly produced in the 18th and 19th centuries. When they are under a source of light, we discover a design or scenes in subtle gray tones, like an antique etching. These curious plates were very popular in those days, especially to make lamp shades. This lithophanie is embellished by a smart molded frame, which is also decorated with a basket pattern and some Renaissance style details in the corners and the sides. When we light the piece, the etched motive becomes an image which depicts a woman with two winged kids, probably Cupids. It is a romantic and mythological scene: maybe the woman is an allegory. She is dressed with ethereal clothes and stands in a foreshortened pose, daringly showing one of her breasts. She is also carrying a basket with flowers, while the little angels play around her. The scene is full of charm and is part of a higly decorative and original piece. This lithophanie is heightened by the presence of the signature and the serial number on the back. The signature shows an M letter and the number 1819 (probably a year), both covered by an elegant crown. The serial number is 2126. A bunch of interesting details which make up an original and appealing article, fit to become part of a collection of curious antiques. Measurements: 187 mm width x 235 mm height.