Earthenware Plate – Vieille Garde Impériale – Utzschneider & Cie – Sarreguemines, Late 19th Century

An antique fine earthenware plate by Sarreguemines, featuring a remarkable narrative decoration in black and cobalt blue, combining military iconography with Neo-Renaissance ornamentation.

At the centre, an engraved scene depicts two mounted soldiers in uniform, armed with lances and accompanied by standards. It is framed by two inscriptions: “Vieille garde impériale” (Old Imperial Guard) and “Tartare Lithuanien. Éclaireur” (Lithuanian Tartar. Scout). The latter, referring to a distinctive military figure, gives the plate particular iconographic interest and will appeal to collectors of military history and antique narrative ceramics.

The broad rim is richly decorated in cobalt blue with scrolling foliage, arabesques and stylised eagles. Their outstretched wings evoke military and imperial imagery. The intricate motifs and elaborate ornamentation lend the piece a historicist elegance characteristic of antique earthenware designs.

The reverse bears a circular blue Sarreguemines manufactory mark, including the inscription “U & Cie”, standing for Utzschneider & Cie.

With its military subject, elaborate decoration and characteristic colour palette, this plate is a distinctive collector’s piece, ideal for enriching a collection of 19th-century narrative ceramics, a cabinet of curiosities or an interior inspired by French heritage.

Very good overall condition considering the age of the piece. The reverse displays a network of old crazing, together with signs of use and a patina that bear witness to its history.