Centrepiece - Byzantine/Roman Iconography - Silver-plated copper - Bourgeois Refinement

A magnificent decorative piece that stands out for its large format, crafted with a masterful technique of very high and deep relief, combining the power of engraving with the delicacy of silver plating on copper. The piece presents a rich visual narrative that evokes the glory of the Roman Empire and the influences of the period of Justinian I, making it a highly valuable collectible and decorative item.
-Origin: France, given the mastery of silver-plated copper work and the theme centered on Roman/Byzantine history (These types of plates were luxury items produced in Paris or Lyon for wealthy travelers who wanted a "historical" souvenir with the elegance of contemporary French design.)
-Style: Late Louis Philippe with a strong influence from Romantic Eclectic Historicism: (In 19th-century France, there was an obsession with the "Renaissance" and classical themes, such as Roman slaves or Justinian, but always adapted to the taste of the time. The "stylized" rope that binds the slaves' hands is a design detail that reflects French bourgeois refinement, transforming an element of punishment, like the chains/ropes of slaves, into an ornamental element, like the "coiling" curves that are very typical of mid-19th-century French design, which sought to soften rigid themes with a more decorative and romantic touch).
-Theme: Byzantine/Roman
-Approximate Period: 1830-1870. Although the subject matter refers to the period of Justinian I (6th century AD), the manufacturing style suggests a piece from the Louis Philippe period (1830-1848) or the Second Empire (Napoleon III).
-Material: Silver-plated copper.
-Technique: High-relief embossing, chiseling, and engraving. Meticulous handwork is evident in the textures of the armor and faces. France was a pioneer and world leader in the silver-plated copper technique and high-quality industrial embossing during the 19th century (with renowned firms such as Christofle).
-Measurements: 40.2 cm in diameter.
-Hallmark: No visible marks, which is common in pieces from specialized artisan workshops of the period.
-Condition: Excellent condition. It has a natural patina. The relief maintains astonishing definition, and the silvering retains its original luster across most of the surface. There are no serious structural dents.
-Use: A high-impact decorative piece for wall display (includes hanging wire attached to two silver-plated brass rings) or as a stately centerpiece.
-Iconography and Symbolism: The piece is notable for its complex circular composition:
*Central Medallion: Depicts a warrior in profile with an ornate helmet and what appears to be a battle-axe (francisca), a characteristic element of the troops during the era of Justinian.
*Outer Rim: Features:
Figures in dynamic poses, including the poignant depiction of a pair of slaves (man and woman) seated back to back with their hands bound (The Captivity), symbolizing conquests and imperial power, a classic representation of the "Roman Triumph." In ancient art, they symbolized conquered barbarian peoples. Its presence highlights the central figure as a victorious leader, possibly evoking Belisarius's campaigns under Justinian I to reclaim the territories of the former Empire.
Medallions alternate between the faces of soldiers wearing Roman helmets, or those of Zeus and/or Lawmakers/Aristocrats: The Bearded Figure: His features are reminiscent of representations of Zeus/Jupiter. He symbolizes Wisdom and Law, the foundations upon which Justinian reconstructed the Civil Code (Corpus Iuris Civilis). The Beardless Figure: With finer, more aristocratic features, he represents Civil or Judicial Authority. He could be a magistrate or a high-ranking official of the Byzantine court, reflecting the administrative order of the Empire.
A piece of great character.
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