19th C. Creil Creamware Transfer Printed Plate, Marins/Sailors

Description

An early 19th C. French transfer printed creamware plate, with polychrome hand painting, showing the mark for the Creil factory. … more An early 19th C. French transfer printed creamware plate, with polychrome hand painting, showing the mark for the Creil factory.

The central image shows two French Revolution Era sailors, at ease on the wharf with tall sailing ships in the background. A border of Gallic roosters, le coq gaulois, an unofficial national symbol of France, alternates with cartouches showing musical instruments, weaponry and French flags or banners. Bright painting in the colors of the French flag. “Marins” or Sailors, is printed beneath the main image.

The Creil factory was the first French pottery to use transfer printing on earthenware, reproducing engravings of different topics. The company later became “Creil and Montereau Faïenceries” under the name Lebeuf, Milliet & Co. (LM & Co.) until 1876.

Incredible antique condition, the expected surface wear to the verso. An old, hand written sale tag is on the back as well. less