French Porcelain Oyster Plate, From the Estate of R. J. Reynolds

Early 20th century, hand painted in light and dark pink with gilt embellishments and fish scale motifs to the rims, featuring a central "RJ" monogram.

0.75 x 9.25 in. diameter

Private Collection of Martha Herlihy, Raleigh, North Carolina

Richard Joshua Reynolds (1850-1918) founded the R. J. Reynolds Tobacco Company in Winston, North Carolina, in 1875. It grew into one of the largest and most influential tobacco companies in the United States, producing major cigarette brands such as Camel (introduced in 1913) and later Winston and Salem. The company played a major role in the economic development of Winston-Salem and became a dominant force in the American tobacco industry during the 20th century.

His legacy continued through his family, including R. J. Reynolds Jr. (1906–1964), who served as both a U.S. congressman and mayor of Winston-Salem, maintaining the family’s strong civic presence. The next generation, R. J. Reynolds III (1933–1994), carried that legacy forward through his involvement in film, banking, and philanthropy.

Some loss of gilt application; good vintage condition.

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