Copper Repoussé Cendrier-France, circa 1920's

Repoussé (or embossing) is the art of raising ornament in relief from the reverse side. The design is first drawn on the surface of the metal and the motifs outlined with a tracer, which transfers the essential parts of the drawing to the back of the plate. The plate is then embedded face down in an asphalt block and the portions to be raised are hammered down into the yielding asphalt. Next the plate is removed and re-embedded with the face uppermost. The hammering is continued, this time forcing the background of the design into the asphalt. By a series of these processes of hammering and re-embedding, followed finally by chasing, the metal attains its finished appearance. There are three essential types of tools—for tracing, for bossing, and for chasing—as well as a specialized tool, a snarling iron or spring bar, which is used to reach otherwise inaccessible areas. Ornament in relief is also produced by mechanical means. A thin, pliable sheet of metal may be pressed into molds, between dies, or over stamps. All of these methods have been known from antiquity.
Several metals were selected by craftsman for embossing like bronze, brass, and copper.
All types of useable items could be made by the repousse methods. Several countries adopted this by making dinner wares, drinkware, vases, ashtrays (cendrier:French), and giftware (souvenirs).
Authentic repousse made items are not massed produced and are made individually by an artisan.
Artisans would sculp various designs, and markings to represent its origin or to boast a symbol of pride.
Most 19th century repousse souvenirs were made depicting landmarks or religious symbols and were means of commerce for most French artisans such as this cendrier.
In France, cendriers are ashtrays or cigarette rests. This one is a "dual rest" displaying a royal coat of arms. The ashtray is stamped with the numbers "1296" which research suggests this is the 1296th item the artisan has made in their studio. Very well crafted and ornate detail was done by this maker. Unknown what heraldic symbol this would represent. Several family badges and international coat of arms could have been requested to have been embossed by the metal artisan. Our research narrowed this item down to most likely the south of France around possibly Cote d'Azur or Biot areas.
This tray weighs 1 pound 1 ounce and measures 6-7/8" in diameter and rests flat at 1" tall.
MemoryLaneVintiques picked this item in Bedford, Texas from an estate sale.

MemoryLaneVintiques sanitizes all glassware, glazed pottery, jewelry and resin cast items before packing for shipment....100% Guaranteed!
STAND IN PHOTO NOT INCLUDED WITH PURCHASE OF THE ITEM!

ETSY INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY POLICY
As a venue for artists, designers, and makers, Etsy takes intellectual property rights very seriously. We comply with intellectual property laws and industry best practices in order to maintain the integrity of our creative marketplace. This Intellectual Property Policy explains how we address allegations of infringement: how authorized parties can submit reports of infringement regarding content on our marketplace, and how Etsy sellers can respond when their listings or shops are affected by a report.
ANY COPY AND PASTING OR PLAGIARIZING OF MATERIAL
ON MEMORYLANEVINTIQUES IS SUBJECT TO ETSY INVESTIGATION AND PENALTIES!
MemoryLaneVintiques researchers also protect our shop from Intellectual Property Theft by researching for violators of our material. Be respectful!
Chad & Jennifer Johnston (August 2024)