19th-Century French Patronymic Plate, 9"

This is a 19th-century decorative plate, beautifully hand-painted in polychrome, with a patronymic inscription that reads "Rosalie Cointri 1787." The plate features a scalloped edge adorned with a delicate dotted border in soft hues of yellow, brown, and blue. At the center, there is a hand-painted depiction of a saintly figure, most likely Saint Catherine, holding a palm branch in one hand and a sword in the other.

This plate is likely a reproduction of an earlier piece from the late 18th century, when the production of plates with patronymic decoration gained popularity in the renowned pottery town of Nevers. This trend, which began in Nevers, spread throughout France in the 19th century, thanks to pattern books from which artisans copied older designs.

Interestingly, while the plate is inscribed with the name "Rosalie Cointri," the depiction is of Saint Catherine, not Saint Rosalie. This suggests that the maker copied a pre-existing model rather than creating a new design more appropriate for someone named Rosalie.

This charming and intriguing piece would make a valuable addition to any collection of antique faience, combining historical significance with artistic craftsmanship.