Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
This is a highly whimsical, sage-green jasperware porcelain pin tray or wall plaque featuring a relief scene of a circus clown training a dog. The tray is framed by an extraordinary, organic 'grotto' border resembling icicles or stalactites, complete with hanging holes at the top and bottom.
Story
In 1910, German theaters and traveling circuses were at the height of their popularity. This tray captures a quiet, intimate moment between a classic Pierrot-style clown and his performing dog. It was designed to bring a touch of theatrical whimsy to a lady's dressing table.
Maker / Origin
Founded in 1890 by Gustav Schafer and Günther Vater, the Schafer & Vater porcelain factory in Thuringia, Germany, became world-famous for its high-quality, humorous, and sometimes bizarre decorative items. Unlike the serious, classical jasperware produced by Wedgwood, Schafer & Vater used the matte, colored-porcelain medium to create caricature figurines, novelty decanters, and theatrical scenes.
Condition & Value
The tray appears to be in very good condition with no obvious chips to the highly vulnerable, sharp points of the grotto border. There is some minor surface dust and light wear consistent with age. Excellent condition on these spiked pieces is rare and commands a premium.
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.