Edward F. Caldwell & Co. Ormolu Torchères, Madame Du Barry Porcelain Available at Christie’s

Christie’s online English & European Furniture, Ceramics, Silver & Works of Art auction will spotlight a 17th-century porcelain plate made for Madame Du Barry, the last mistress of King Louis XV of France. She was a commoner who had multiple lovers before she met King Louis XV. Her entry to the French royal court as maîtresse-en-titer was nothing short of a scandal. She was hastily married to Comte Guillaume du Barry with a false birth certificate. The smitten King requested many Parisian artists to create things for Madame Du Barry, one of which was this porcelain plate from a service made especially for her. The center has a “DB” monogram in gilt and flower garlands with a band of gilt husks to the well. The rim features heavenly putti in clouds that alternate with baskets of flowers and berried myrtle wreaths. The blue-ground rim has zig-zagging gilt bands. 

Among decorative art, an untitled printed metal collage on wood by Tony Berlant stands out. The printed metal exteriors are pieced together with metal hardware. The blue background contrasts with the cluster of bright orange and peach-colored circles. Berlant’s precise use of images and fragments in his works create unique experiences for viewers. From Chinese famille rose porcelain to engravings in the style of Angelika Kauffman, Christie’s’ New York will present a wide array of fine and decorative arts dating from the 17th to the 20th centuries. Find the listed items and more by visiting Christie’s.