SIGNED AND DATED MILES 69, INDISTINCT INCISED FRENCH INSCRIPTION TO REVERSE

The archival records of 1869 document that Louis Solon was both actively employed at Sèvres and independently producing small pâte-sur-pâte vases and plaques. These early works are often signed Miles, an acronym created using his initials. In 1870, the outbreak of the Franco-Prussian war and invasion of his village prompted Solon to end his twelve year relationship with Sèvres and look for permanent employment at Mintons. The poignant balance of power shown on the present example perhaps foretells of these disruptive events.