Fine 19th Century Papier Mache Tray by Jennings & Bettridge, London Royal Makers

This is a superb large 19th Century English antique hand painted papier-mâché shaped tray impressed to verso by the Royal Makers Jennens & Bettridge, London. Beautifully hand painted and gilt shaped tray on a gold ground decorated with rose flowers and foliage with gilt trailing swags and gilt decorated boarder. In wonderful original condition with only a slight blemish to one of the flowers this is one of the best we have seen by the leading maker of the 19th Century. This is one of the largest and most decorative trays they produced Jennens and Bettridge (1815-1864) were highly regarded for producing quality papier mache wares. They acquired the workshops of Henry Clay, Japanner to George Iii and the Prince of Wales, in 1816. Their original premises were in Birmingham and they started a London branch at 3 West Halkin Street, Belgravia in 1837. Later offices were established in Paris and New York.