Art Nouveau Silver-plated Metal And Glazed Ceramic Pen Tray – France, Circa 1900

Dimensions: 14 cm (length) × 7 cm (width)
Materials: Glazed ceramic and silver-plated metal
Origin: France
Period: Circa 1895–1910
Condition: Very good antique condition with light age-related wear; no visible maker's marks

A rare and elegant Art Nouveau pen tray, finely crafted in France around 1900. The piece features a vibrantly glazed ceramic inset, showcasing a stunning orange-to-green gradient with subtle crackle effects. The surface treatment is reminiscent of Japonisme-inspired glazes popular among French ceramicists of the period, possibly linked to workshops in the Limoges or Sèvres region, or studios such as Léon Lachenal or Montières.

The ceramic is mounted in an exquisitely detailed silver-plated frame, shaped with flowing leaf and vine motifs in the unmistakable Art Nouveau style. The organic curves and naturalistic forms reflect the influence of artists such as Hector Guimard and Louchet Frères, known for combining metalwork with decorative ceramics during this period.

Its compact, elongated form makes it ideally suited as a pen tray or desk accessory, though it could equally function as a jewelry rest, match or cigarette holder, or calling card dish.

• Finely modelled silver-plated frame with asymmetrical leaf appliqués

• Original high-gloss ceramic inset with crackled glaze

• A classic Art Nouveau blend of naturalism and elegance

• Unsigned, but clearly of studio or small workshop production

• Tested silver-plating (confirmed, not pewter)

Unmarked pieces of this quality were often produced by French boutique ateliers or sold through high-end department stores like La Samaritaine or Le Bon Marché, without bearing signatures. The fusion of ceramic and silverplate aligns with decorative works by WMF, Lachenal, and Montières, as well as the export ceramics influenced by Japanese glaze techniques and form.

• Silver-plated mount shows a soft antique patina, consistent with age

• Ceramic insert is intact, with no chips, cracks, or restoration

• Minor surface wear as expected for an object of this period

• No hallmark present, but craftsmanship is of clearly high standard

An exceptional find for collectors of:

• Art Nouveau decorative arts

• French ceramic-silver hybrids

• Writing accessories and pen trays

• Japonisme and fin-de-siècle design