Silver presentation plate

This silver presentation plate was made in Tournai in 1679-1680. Offered on the occasion of a baptism it is decorated with stylised shells, carnations, tulips, peonies and daffodils. We know that other older examples of this type of plate were made in the Antwerp region with, like this one, floral decorations or mythological scenes, but this plate is particularly special. Tournai silverwork from the 17th century is rather rare and there are few examples of it in our museums, so having this piece in one of our public collections was a real opportunity that the Foundation was able to seize. This beautifully made piece of silver acquired by the Comte Thierry de Looz-Corswarem Fund at Christie's in Paris, has become part of the silver collection at the Château de Seneffe.