A fine Berlin cabinet plate, circa 1815

finely painted with a central faux micro-mosaic medallion of an Italian river scene reserved on a faux marble ground with black and gilt veins, gilt foliate motifs and medallions on a pale salmon ground, blue sceptre mark, impressed numerals, gilt numeral.

In good condition. No damage noted.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

This exquisite form of decoration was introduced at the Berlin porcelain factory in the first decades of the 19th century and several artists are recorded as working in this form of painting. A similar plate with an Italian landscape medallion from the collection of the Royal House of Hanover was sold at Sotheby's, 10th October, lot 2317. Cabinet cups and saucers painted in this and pietra-dura form with birds are illustrated by Erich Köllmann, Berliner Porzellan, 1966, pl. 191.