Pair 18th C Paris Porcelain Plates Locré and Russinger Cupid Kettledrum V&A

  
Each plate features a lobed rim with gilt edge, richly decorated in enamels and gold with a repeating neoclassical border of lion masks holding rings, doves in flight, floral festoons, and cameo-style puce medallions, all delicately linked by gilt garlands and painted tendrils. One plate depicts a putto playing kettledrums, seated among clouds and encircled by a garland of roses.

This exact design is held by the Victoria and Albert Museum accession number C. The second features a putto holding an arrow and a flaming torch, a classical allegory of Cupid, symbolising both the piercing and burning power of love. The reverse of each plate bears crossed arrows, painted in underglaze blue - a documented maker's mark associated with the Locré & Russinger porcelain factory in Paris.

The same mark appears on comparable pieces from the period, including the V&A example. These plates are outstanding examples of pre-Revolutionary French porcelain, combining allegorical neoclassical imagery with intricate enamelled detail and museum-level craftsmanship. Condition : Good overall antique condition. One plate has a visible but stable hairline from rim to centre (shown front and back). The other has a small chip to the underside base rim. Minor surface wear and gilt loss consistent with age.

Both remain structurally sound and highly displayable.