Early C19th Regency period papier-mâché lacquered oval tray by Clay .Superbly decorated fantastical Chinoiserie oval tray fitted with original distinctive pattern gilt-bronze carrying handles. The black lacquer ground decorated with gilded landscape and pagoda scenes .The reverse stamped with the crowned mark for Clay of Birmingham and London “CLAY PATENT” .*The renowned firm of Henry Clay established in Birmingham , patented a process for treating laminated sheets of paper with linseed oil to produce waterproof panels in 1772 . Clay produced items ranging from caddies , knife boxes and trays to small pieces of furniture . The company moved to London and established workshops in King Street, Covent Garden , enjoying patronage from a rich clientele which included the Royal family and in particular The Prince of Wales .In excellent original condition, with only one minor historic crack to the lower rim raised edge . The surface with only minor ‘crackulature ‘ or crazing ...