FRENCH, LIMOGES, MID-16TH CENTURY | Plaque with Saint Margaret

Overall the condition of the enamel is very good, with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There are a few minor losses to the enamel around the edges. There is minor warping to the plaque, consistent with the material. There is very minor stable splitting to the enamel, notably at the top left corner. Some of the gilding has ghosted, including to the inscriptions and notably to the Saint's halo. The gilding on the sleeves of two of the kneeling figures may have been retouched. There is some wear to the green in the coat of arms. The plaque has been detached from the velvet covered wood frame, and there is some residue from the frame at the sides, particularly on the right hand side. The plaque can be re-inserted into the frame using glue to reattach the front section. There is general wear to the frame, including fraying to the fabric. The front of the frame, which is glued on, has been partially detached.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

RELATED LITERATURE
S. Baratte, Les Émaux Peints de Limoges, Catalogue Musée du Louvre, Département des Objets d'Art, Paris, 2000, p. 90, MR R 284a