Hello, this item is a group of four small Chinese painted-enamel trays made from copper or brass, each with a different shape, ground colour, and decorative subject. The group includes a square tray with a solitary female figure beneath a tree and a cobalt-blue floral border, a yellow-ground tray painted with peonies and a butterfly, a turquoise-bordered rectangular tray with flowering plants and an insect, and a smaller yellow-ground tray densely decorated with flowers. The exposed metal rims, white enamelled backs, shallow forms, and painted decoration relate broadly to Canton enamel production. However, the trays do not form an original matched set, and their differing construction, painting quality, and surface treatment suggest production at different times. The figure tray may date from the late Qing to Republic period, while the brighter floral examples appear more consistent with Republic-period or mid-20th-century decorative wares. Without workshop marks, documented provenance, or technical examination, the group should be described as Chinese Canton-style enamel trays dating broadly from the early to mid-20th century rather than securely attributed to the Qing dynasty. Small Canton enamel trays with figures and floral borders appear regularly at auction, but age, painting quality, and condition create substantial differences in value.

The trays show considerable age and use, including scratches, staining, surface dirt, fading, pitting, hairline cracking, and scattered losses to the enamel, especially around the borders and corners. The figure tray has particularly noticeable wear across the central scene, while the yellow peony tray shows scratches and discolouration to the ground. The turquoise tray has small edge losses and abrasion, and the densely floral tray shows cracking and wear around its border. Their small dimensions, approximately 2.5 to 3 inches, also limit their individual market value. The group remains attractive as a decorative collection and represents several popular Canton enamel subjects, but the mixed dating, condition issues, lack of marks, and absence of a fitted box or established provenance keep the value moderate.

Fair Market Value: $120 to $250 USD