Set of Three MCM Kentley Oversize Buffet Trays, "The Romance of Fifi and Pepe" Design

Set of Three MCM Kentley Oversize Buffet Trays, "The Romance of Fifi and Pepe" Design

$65.00
Just of my goodness - these are so retro fun! This is three of the five trays that were in the series, "The Romance of Fifi and Pepe" from Kentley. The scenes of the two French Poodles are painting in pastel colors on a black background covering the center of each tray. The faux wood grain look of the handles, edges and backs are fun design elements as well. These trays were very popular in the 1950s and 60s. Each tray base is flat but the borders are a textured type design and rise slightly above base. There are three in the set. The back of each tray describes the scene painted on the front and has the artist signature and is marked Kentley Kentley Corporation Grand Rapids Mich. Copyright 1952 @Kentley is on the front in the bottom left hand corner as well. The three scenes are:

Scene 2 - Fascination. Parc de Montsouris, the playground of past and present Parisian aristocracy, is the rendez-vous for our Mademoiselle Fifi and Monsieur Pepe . Here, in a secluded spot, inspiration point of the Artists, they meet day after day: so, no wonder that Admiration should turn to Fascination...tout de suite.

Scene 3 - Inspiration. Paree in the spring!...tra-la-la...The flower vendors display their wondrous wares. ON the Avenues and the Boulevards, they offer their tokens of love from sidewalk stands and pushcarts. Flowers have also inspired Pepe, for here we find him carefully selecting a nosegay for his Fifi. Love in bloom...n'est-ce pas?

Scene 4 - Celebration. Admiration! Fascination! Inspiration and now...Celebration! Here, dressed for the occasion, Mademoiselle Fifi is very happy. She proudly carries her flowers, while Monsieur Pepe, the gay blade, hails a taxi. Destination? Cafe Michele, of course, where Romance had its beginning.

While these no longer have the box, I have found others of this type and the information on the back of those boxes indicated:

These oversize Kentley Buffet Trays are approximately one third larger than ordinary "lap" trays. Each tray is large enough to accommodate luncheon plate, cup and saucer and accessories. They are made under an exclusive Kentley process which makes them especially light and durable. Each Kentley design is an original created and executed by artists and engravers, famous for their specific fields of art. For buffets, picnics, parties, teas, luncheons and bridge, Kentley trays combine the last word in smartness with practicability and ease of serving.
NOTE: Kentley Trays are made of carefully selected, durable wood fibres, while back and front are covered with a fine, water and alcohol resistant lithographed paper, skillfully fused to the surface.
Each tray is individually inspected to insure consistent high quality. They are easily cleaned by wiping with a damp cloth.
Look for the Kentley Trade Mark. It is your assurance of fine craftmanship.
KENTLEY CORPORATION GRAND RAPIDS MICHIGAN
Printed in USA

The trays are in wonderful condition structurally, still fully functional, without rips or tears. There are small nicks along the edges but nothing significant. The paintings in the center are in wonderful condition.

These would work so well for serving at your next get-together but also display wonderfully with their Parisian flair! Or, how about an amazing one-of-a-kind gift for a poodle lover and bridal shower/wedding?

Dimensions:

17 3/8" X 8 5/8" X 3/4" ( at end handles)
Sold as a set of Three
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