This stunning 18th century platter, made in China, was owned by US Ambassador to France, Robert Bacon, and was brought back to the US in the early 1900s. The platter is Soft-paste porcelain plate with the coat of arms. The word Essayez means "to strive" or "to put forth effort." 18" x 14.5"

Armorial ware or heraldic china (and a variety of other terms) are ceramics decorated with a coat of arms, either that of a family, or an institution or place.