A Theodore Deck circular portrait charger 1874

painted by R. Collin, signed, on the black ground with a bust-length profile portrait of a classical beauty near the Greek inscription, impressed THDECK in blue.

In generally good condition apart from a minor 1/4-inch bruise crack to the glaze on her chin.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Raphaël Collin (1850-1916) painted important historical figures and worked for Théodore Deck between 1872 and 1889. His first works, such as the present example, were painted against a black background until Deck introduced gold as a ground in 1878, to which Collin successfully adapted. A similar charger with a bust-length portrait of a historical figure is illustrated by Bernard Bumpus in Théodore Deck Céramiste, cat. no. 18.

The phonetic translation of the inscription reads as "Phrini", which even though does not have an apparent connotation, may suggest a reference to Irene, the Greek goddess of peace.