Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
This decorative plate is crafted using the classic technique of potichomania or reverse découpage under glass, creating a rich, lacquer-like pictorial surface. The central medallion reproduces a whimsical 19th-century Grandville-style botanical illustration of an anthropomorphic thistle or dandelion figure, framed by ornate Renaissance revival floral and grotesque border patterns.
Story
Jean-Ignace-Isidore Gérard, known as J.J. Grandville, pioneered surreal botanical caricatures in 1840s Paris. This artisan brought those historic engravings back to life through layered reverse glass appliqué, signed on the reverse.
Maker / Origin
The plate is signed by hand on the lacquered reverse with what appears to read 'E. Maucha' or 'E. Mancha'. Decoupage and reverse-glass artisans of the mid-to-late 20th century often worked in boutique decorative studios or craft guilds, reviving historical printmaking techniques for high-end interior decoration.
Condition & Value
Visible edge wear, rim chipping/flaking of the black backing lacquer, and surface scuffs consistent with age and display. The central imagery under glass remains bright and well-preserved. Edge wear moderately reduces value.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
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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.