A French faïence fine (earthenware) plate featuring a detailed monochrome blue transfer-printed design depicting a hunting trophy and naturalistic motifs. The asymmetrical composition showcases a suspended pheasant alongside a hunting horn, rifle barrel, and woven game basket amidst oak branches, balanced by a delicate bird's nest with eggs in the upper left quadrant.

The reverse bears the blue transfer-printed retailer's mark of "Au Tapis Rouge, Paris," a prominent 19th-century Parisian department store known for commissioning high-quality tablewares from leading French manufactories such as Jules Vieillard, Choisy-le-Roi or Creil-Montereau.

Historical & Style Details

• Subject / Source: Hunting trophy with pheasant, horn, rifle, and bird's nest
• Retailer / Dealer label: Stamped "AU TAPIS ROUGE / PARIS" in blue transfer print on the reverse
• Material / Technique: Transfer-printed earthenware (faïence fine / terre de fer)
• Period: Late 19th Century (circa 1880–1900)
• Origin: France
• Markings: Impressed "8 S" and an indistinct symbol on the reverse
• Colour & Surface: Cream-colored glaze with cobalt blue transfer decoration; minor localized discoloration and crazing consistent with age
• Condition: Overall good antique condition with light surface wear, minor glaze crazing, and slight localized staining to the cream ground. No visible chips or cracks.

History

During the late 19th century, major Parisian department stores like Au Tapis Rouge commissioned exclusive dinnerware services from premier French faïence factories. These pieces often featured naturalistic, hunting, or botanical themes, reflecting the French bourgeois taste for rustic yet refined country house aesthetics. Earthenware of this period, often referred to as terre de fer, remains highly collectible for its crisp transfer-printed details and historical connection to Parisian retail history.