Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
An exquisite European Art Nouveau/Jugendstil porcelain tray encased in a pierced brass rim with integrated handles. The porcelain insert features a stylized geometric motif rendered in muted gray glazes with hand-applied raised red enamel dots, typical of the Secessionist aesthetic.
Story
Around 1900, German and Austrian Jugendstil artists revolutionized homeware by blending industrial brass mounting with delicate hand-decorated porcelain. The geometric roundels and red enamel accents mirror Wiener Werkstätte patterns of the era.
Maker / Origin
While the brass mount bears classic German Secessionist features reminiscent of firms like WMF or Erhard & Söhne, ceramic inserts were often supplied by major makers like Villeroy & Boch or Rosenthal. The blue stamped mark 'Dec. 1787 / 20' refers to the factory decoration or pattern number rather than the year 1787.
Condition & Value
The porcelain panel exhibits prominent hairline cracks branching near the inner rim. The brass frame shows age-appropriate tarnish, patina, and light surface oxidation. Damage to the porcelain reduces overall value by roughly 50-60%.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.