This late 19th Century Nevers French faience plate is hand painted with the image of French patriot Jeanne Charbonnier surrounded by a border of leaves and berries. Faience, or tin-glazed and enameled earthenware, first emerged in France during the sixteenth century, reaching widespread usage among elite patrons during the seventeenth and early eighteenth centuries, prior to the establishment of soft-paste porcelain factories. Although characterized as more provincial in style than porcelain, French faience was used at the court of Louis XIV as part of elaborate meals and displays, with large-scale vessels incorporated into the Baroque garden designs of Versailles. The images with the date 1789 signifies the beginning of the French Revolution, she represents liberty. The expression of liberty on pottery and in paintings often appears after the revolution as a figure holding a staff topped with a liberty cap. The plate is in good vintage condition. And is even better(see images). This lovely 140+ years old plate is delightful, beautifully painted with a nice vintage patina. If you like the design and history of the era, this plate is for you!