Lucien Francois Penet (1834-1901) 19th century Limoges enamel plaque

Lucien Francois Penet ( French 1834-1901). A late 19th-century, signed, Limoges Enamel Plaque of the Greek goddess Theia set against clouds. Theia is the Greek goddess of sight, light, and vision and, consequentially, the goddess who confers brilliance and value on jewellery, including gold, silver, and gems. A beautifully painted enamel on copper, slightly convex to confer an almost 3D effect. Note the guilloché enamelling employed on her tiara and the side of the jewellery box she holds in her left hand. Signed “L F Penet” lower left”. Set in a contemporary, almost certainly original, late nineteenth-century ebonised, engraved, and gilt metal frame with suspension rings and an integral easel stand. 

Measurements: 
Plaque (sight): 18.5cm (7.3in) high. 11.3cm (4.5in) wide.
Frame: 32cm (12.6in) high. 23.3cm (9.2) wide.

Condition:
Plaque: Excellent. No issues found. The spots near her right elbow and on her chest were dirt noticed after photography and have been removed. 
Frame: Very good. A few knocks and marks appropriate to its age. The gilt worn on the elaborate metal ribbon and foliage work lends it appropriate age patination.

Biography: Lucien François Penet (1834-1901) was born in Thiennes in northern France. He was a painter, miniaturist, enamellist, and engraver specialising in portraits, genre scenes, and still life. He first exhibited at the Paris Salon of 1865 and was awarded a bronze medal in 1886. (Primary source: Benezit Dictionary of Artists, Vol:10)

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