Mid-Century Modern Hand-Painted Enamel on Copper Oriental Landscape Charger
Charles (Signed Artist) · Art & Decor > Collectible Plates/Enamelware
Era / Decade
1950s-1960s (Mid-Century Modern). Dating clues include the 'Orientalism' art style popular in the MCM era, the specific use of hand-painted enamel on a copper substrate, and the stylistic artist signature.
Material
Vitreous enamel on copper plate with a blackened/oxidized copper reverse. This is high-quality artisan work involving glass powder fused to metal.
Condition
Very Good. The enamel surface appears glossy with no visible spider-cracks (crazing) or large chips (pitting) to the glass. Minor edge wear and light oxidation on the reverse are typical for age.
Demand Level
Moderate to Strong. Mid-Century Modern decor remains a consistently strong market, though specific artist-signed enamelware can be a niche collectability category.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$45.00 - $85.00. High-end collectors of 'Charles' enamelware may pay toward the higher end if the size is significant (10 inches or larger).
Estimated Retail Value
$75.00 - $125.00 (estimated original artisan gallery price adjusted for modern inflation).
Comparable Sales
Similar signed enamel landscape plates (approx. 8-12 inches) generally sell for $35-$65 on eBay. Exceptional pieces with vibrant colors or larger diameters reach $90+ on boutique platforms like Etsy or Chairish.
Description
Stunning Mid-Century Modern enamel on copper decorative charger/plate. Features a hand-painted Zen-style landscape with a multi-tiered pagoda, misty mountains, and stylized evergreen boughs. The color palette consists of forest greens, sage, and smoky grays against a speckled white ground. The piece is signed 'CHARLES' in the lower-left quadrant. This is a quintessential example of 1950s-60s Chinoiserie-inspired enamel art.
Key Features
Hand-painted (one-of-a-kind), signed by artist, highly desirable Mid-Century Modern aesthetic, rare green colorway, and dual use as wall art or a coffee table centerpiece.
Authenticity Indicators
Distinctive 'Charles' signature remains consistent with known copper enamelists of the period. The weight and cold feel of the copper backing are authentic. Confidence Level: High.
Flaws to Note
Possible micro-scratching on the surface only visible under direct light; potential flea-bite chips on the very edge where the copper meets the enamel (common in this medium).
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
Etsy (best for vintage/handmade), eBay (global reach for collectors), or Chairish (high-end vintage decor). Local MCM specialty shops may also offer competitive buy-out prices.
Selling Tips
Use keywords like 'MCM', 'Enamel on Copper', 'Pagoda', 'Chinoiserie', and 'Bovano-style'. Take photos at an angle to show the glossy texture and depth of the enamel. Highlight the 'Charles' signature in a close-up shot as collectors specifically search for this artist.