Pronunciation: [plakˈɛt] (IPA) 
Plaquette (/plækɛt/) is a French word meaning a small metal or ceramic tablet. The spelling of this word may confuse English speakers as it contains silent consonants - "q" and "u". On closer inspection, the "q" is followed by "u" and the pronunciation is similar to the English "k" sound, resulting in a similar sound to the word "placket". The "e" at the end is silent and serves to indicate a feminine singular noun.
A plaquette refers to a small, flat, and usually rectangular piece of art or decorative item, typically made out of metal, bronze, ivory, or wood. These objects are often produced in limited quantities and are primarily intended for personal or private use as collectibles, rather than for public display. A plaquette can be adorned with intricate designs, engravings, or relief sculptures, representing various subjects such as mythology, historical events, religious scenes, portraits, or simply intricate patterns. It is commonly used as a term specifically for plaques or tablets, although significantly smaller in size compared to traditional plaques.
Plaquettes were particularly popular during the Renaissance and Baroque periods, when they were used as a form of personal adornment or as gifts. A typical plaquette may measure a few inches in height and width, making it easily portable and suitable for display in small spaces. Due to their size and delicate details, plaquettes are often displayed in frames, mounted on stands, or incorporated into larger objects such as caskets or book covers. They are highly regarded for their craftsmanship, beauty, and historical significance, with many plaquettes serving as important artifacts in museum collections and private art collections globally.
The word "plaquette" has its roots in the French language. It comes from the Old French word "plaquet", which means a small plate or a small piece of metal. The term has been used in various contexts, especially in art and numismatics, to refer to a small decorative or commemorative plaque made of metal, such as bronze or silver. Over time, the word "plaquette" has been adopted and used in English and other languages to describe these small artistic objects.
