Rare and large Classical Trompe-L'oeil Meissen Porcelain Plaque

Rare and large Classical Trompe-L'oeil Meissen Porcelain Plaque
German, 19th Century
Frame: height 60cm, width 55cm, depth 5cm
Plaque: height 45cm, width 40cm
 
Imitating a marble relief, this exceptional porcelain plaque by Meissen, signed 'A. Peignot,' is a rare example of Trompe L'oeil work by this leading porcelain manufactory. Stylistically it bears affinities with various Old Master, particular Italian Renaissance, artworks, like those of Andrea Mantegna, that have the appearance of Classical Roman reliefs and sculptures. It has a monochromatic Classical scene, depicting three women in drapery placing a sculpture of Cupid onto a pedestal. A putto in the background carries flowers, and what appears like a clothed tree-branch or curtain is drawn out of the background before quickly fading back into the panel.
 
Signed to the lower right 'A. Peignot,' (the artist at Meissen responsible for this fine piece), it bears the underglaze blue crossed swords mark to the reverse, and comes mounted in a beautiful ornate carved giltwood frame.
 
Artist/Maker: Meissen