Pair of 19th Century French Repoussé Copper Tavern Scene Wall Chargers

$1,150

About

Bring Old World character to a wine cellar, game room, study, or dining room with this impressive pair of antique wall chargers. Crafted in France circa 1880, each octagonal plaque is worked in repoussé copper, with its elaborate decoration hammered and modeled in high relief.

The central reserves depict two different convivial tavern interiors populated by villagers drinking, playing cards, conversing, and making music. Detailed costumes, furnishings, vessels, and architectural elements animate the compositions. Each scene is surrounded by a richly ornamented border of scrolling foliage, grotesque masks, and pairs of winged dragons arranged symmetrically around the perimeter.

The lively genre scenes were created in the manner of David Teniers the Younger (1610–1690), the influential Flemish Baroque painter celebrated for his depictions of peasant life, village festivities, and tavern interiors. The subjects and crowded narrative compositions reflect the enduring popularity of his work throughout Europe.

Substantial in scale and striking when displayed together, the matched chargers retain a warm, time-softened copper patina that emphasizes the depth of the repoussé decoration. Both plaques are in excellent condition commensurate with age and use. Each is fitted with a hook on the reverse for convenient wall installation.

Dimensions: 23.25” W x 23.25” H each

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