Regency Papier-Mâché Chinoiserie Tray Attributed to Henry Clay

Country: England

Date: Circa 1810

Medium: Papier-Mâché, Lacquer

Dimensions

Width: 76.00cm (29.92 inches)

Depth: 56.00cm (22.05 inches)

Main description

This Regency papier-mâché Chinoiserie tray, attributed to Henry Clay, dates to the early nineteenth century circa 1810 and is decorated with a richly worked scene of figures, architecture and exotic landscape elements.

The embossed decoration shows a large gathering of figures engaged in a variety of activities within an elaborate interior and garden setting. Individual details include a figure holding an umbrella, another seated on a finely woven rug playing with a dog, together with further figures fishing, socialising and serving.

Each figure is worked individually in a different pose, giving the composition a strong narrative quality and reflecting the contemporary fascination with Asian culture and imagery during the Regency period.

The surrounding landscape is filled with exotic trees and foliage, alongside pagodas, architectural forms and shaped garden urns. The combination of embossed figures, decorative setting and Chinoiserie subject matter is closely associated with the type of work produced by Henry Clay’s workshops.

View the Complete Freshfords Objet d’Art Furniture collection.

Condition

The only notable wear is to the upper edge, where the original gilt banding is faint and worn in places but remains visible around the surround. Minor wear to the scene.

Who was Henry Clay? 

Henry Clay (circa 1737 to 1812) was an 18th century master japanner and pioneer of patent paperware in Georgian England. Appointed Japanner in Ordinary to King George III and the Prince of Wales, he invented a groundbreaking process for creating dense, heat resistant paper boards that rivalled hardwood. Operating from workshops in Birmingham and Covent Garden, London, his firm produced luxury tea caddies, trays, and fine furnishings for British royalty and high society.

For further information see our Makers and Retailers encyclopaedia on Henry Clay.

What is the Regency Period?

The Regency period (1811-1820) formed the closing years of the Georgian era and was defined by refined classical design inspired by ancient Greece, Rome and Egypt. Furniture from the period often features bold veneers, clean architectural lines and restrained decorative details in brass, ebony and gilt bronze.

For further information, see our Antique Furniture Periods encyclopaedia on the Georgian Period.

Why Buy From Freshfords Antiques?

Established in 1987, Freshfords Antiques has spent nearly four decades sourcing and curating the finest examples of English antique furniture. Our reputation is built upon a deep-rooted specialism in the Georgian and Regency periods, where we focus on selecting pieces that retain their genuine age, original patination, and unimpeachable authenticity. We believe that an antique should not only be a significant historical object but also a functional and beautiful addition to a contemporary home.

As proud members of the British Antique Dealers’ Association (BADA), we operate under a rigorously enforced code of conduct that prioritises professional integrity and expertise. Membership of BADA is only granted after a thorough election procedure and is subject to annual review, ensuring that our clients can purchase with complete confidence. When you acquire a piece from Freshfords, you are benefiting from a wealth of experience, a dedication to craftsmanship, and a commitment to preserving the heritage of the finest English cabinet making.