Longwy - M.P. Chevallier - Wall plate - F.3301 - Enamel - Hand-Painted with gold

LONGWY EMAUX - Exceptional "Plaisir" Pattern Plate - M.P. Chevallier - Hand-Painted Cloisonné with Gold - Model F.3301 - 1955.

A faience plate from the prestigious Faïenceries et Emaux de Longwy, France. This exceptional piece represents the pinnacle of mid-century French ceramic art, combining traditional cloisonné-style enameling with luxurious gold detailing. The "Plaisir" pattern with extensive gold work was reserved for Longwy's most prestigious production line, intended for wealthy collectors and luxury interiors.

HISTORICAL CONTEXT & ARTIST
Marked with the "PLAISIR" designation and dated circa 1950, this plate was produced during the tenure of M.P. Chevallier, who served as artistic director of Longwy from 1945 to 1952, with his influence continuing into the mid-1950s.

**Important Artistic Dynasty**: Maurice-Paul Chevallier was the nephew of Raymond Chevallier, the legendary artistic director of Boch Keramis (Belgium). This familial connection created a unique cross-pollination of artistic ideas between two of Europe's most prestigious ceramic manufacturers - Longwy in France and Boch Keramis in Belgium. Both institutions shared a commitment to combining traditional craftsmanship with contemporary artistic vision.

This family legacy represents a bridge between French cloisonné enamel tradition and Belgian ceramic artistry, making pieces from this period particularly significant to collectors of European decorative arts.

TECHNIQUE & ARTISTIC FEATURES
- Technique: Longwy's signature cloisonné-style enamel work with hand-applied gold outlining (dorure à la main)
- Pattern: "Plaisir" - one of Longwy's luxury decorative patterns
- Model: F.3301
- Design Elements:
* Central floral bouquet in delicate pink and burgundy tones
* Deep burgundy/aubergine wide rim
* Elaborate yellow scrollwork border with intricate gold detailing (an expensive, labor-intensive process)
* Red accent flowers integrated into the border design
* Multiple shades of enamel creating depth and dimension

LONGWY HERITAGE
The Longwy factory (established 1798) is recognized as a **UNESCO World Heritage Site** for its contribution to French ceramic art. The manufactory became famous for its distinctive cloisonné-style enamel technique.

CONDITION
Excellent condition for a 75-year-old piece
- Enamels remain vibrant with their original brilliant luster
- Gold detailing intact throughout with minimal wear
- no cracks, no repairs, no restorations. One tiny chip (only visible on the back of 1 millimeter)
- Slight surface crazing visible - this is characteristic of the enamel technique and considered normal, desirable patina for Longwy pieces of this era
- Minimal signs of use consistent with careful handling

MARKINGS & AUTHENTICITY
- Longwy Emaux factory stamp with "PLAISIR" designation
- Model number: F.3301
- M.P. Chevallier period mark
- Handpainted

PROVENANCE
Private collection, acquired in France

COLLECTIBILITY & INVESTMENT VALUE
This plate represents a unique convergence of collecting interests:
1. UNESCO-recognized French heritage craftsmanship - Longwy is internationally recognized
2. Artistic dynasty significance - The Chevallier family connection between Longwy (France) and Boch Keramis (Belgium) adds historical depth
3. Labor-intensive gold decoration - Gold application was expensive even in the 1950s, reserved for luxury pieces
4. Excellent preservation - 75-year-old enamels retaining their original brilliance is exceptional
5. Plaisir" pattern rarity - One of Longwy's prestige patterns
6. Mid-century modern appeal - 1950s French decorative arts are increasingly sought-after