Victorian Chinoiserie Papier-Mâché Pedestal Plate Antique Lacquer c. 1860–1880

This is a Victorian lacquered papier-mâché pedestal plate (also called a tazza or comport) featuring an elaborate hand-gilded Chinoiserie scene. It dates to approximately 1860–1880 and reflects the strong mid-19th-century European fascination with Orientalist and Japonisme design.

The plate is made from lacquered papier-mâché, a popular decorative material in England and France during the Victorian period. It stands on a single central foot, rising 2" in height, with a scalloped 11 3/8" top surface. The decoration is executed in hand-applied gilt lacquer—fine linework, cross-hatching, and delicate gold detail over a deep black lacquer ground.

The scene is classic European Chinoiserie: richly dressed figures in an idealized “Oriental” interior, surrounded by lacquer furniture, stylized flowers, ornate screens, carpets, and views of fantasy pavilions across the water. Although the imagery suggests East Asia, the style is unmistakably European decorative art, drawing from both Chinoiserie and early Japonisme.

The underside shows typical Victorian papier-mâché construction, and a section of rim loss reveals the compressed paper pulp characteristic of the medium (see photos). The surface shows light abrasions and age-expected wear to the lacquer and gilding, yet the scene remains beautifully detailed and vibrant.

A striking example of mid-19th-century decorative papier-mâché—ideal for display on a sideboard, console, or as part of a Chinoiserie collection.

This papier-mâché pedestal plate is a more uncommon form — harder to find than trays, and the detailed gilt scene adds value. Rim loss to the underside is present but doesn’t detract - this still remains a strong decorative piece!