Limoges porcelain has withstood the test of time for centuries. The widely cherished ceramics named for the French city and commune in which they are made are synonymous with sophistication, elegance and refinement. Today, antique Limoges dinnerware, serveware, decorative objects and other porcelain products are coveted and collected all over the world.
The story of Limoges porcelain, which refers to porcelain made in the Limoges region of France — not by a specific factory — begins in 1768. The region is a rich source of kaolin, feldspar and quartz — vital ingredients to the production of this type of pottery.
Porcelain was first made in China and spread all over the world owing to the trade routes to the Far East established by Dutch and Portuguese merchants. Given its origin, English speakers called porcelain “fine china,” an expression you still might hear today. "Fine" indeed — for over a thousand years, it has been a highly sought-after material. Meissen Porcelain (Staatliche Porzellan-Manufaktur Meissen), which was founded in the Electorate of Saxony (now Germany), is one of the preeminent porcelain factories in Europe and was the first to produce true porcelain outside of Asia.
Limoges porcelain refers to porcelain produced in and near the city of Limoges — it does not refer to a specific manufacturer — and it’s distinctive for its luminous hue and bright white qualities, providing an ideal canvas for intricately detailed hand-painted decorations. (Revered Impressionist painter Pierre-Auguste Renoir began his career painting plates in Limoges.)
It wasn’t long before Limoges porcelain captured the attention of King Louis XVI — the region’s first manufactory, established toward the close of the 18th century, was placed under the protection of the King’s brother, the Comte d’Artois. It was later purchased by the King and became Manufacture Royale de Limoges. The facility produced a variety of pieces, including delicate, gold-embellished trinket boxes, ornamental vessels, Rococo-style figurines and elaborate dinnerware service sets.
Following the end of the French Revolution in 1794, Limoges porcelain was no longer restricted, and the commercial porcelain industry ballooned.
By 1819, Limoges had four porcelain factories, and as demand for porcelain grew during the 19th century, the industry expanded in the French city. In 1853, American businessman David Haviland opened the Haviland & Co. factory in Limoges to export porcelain to the United States. The company produced several iconic serveware collections for many American presidents, including Abraham Lincoln, Ulysses S. Grant and Rutherford B. Hayes. Bernardaud opened in the early 1860s.
By 1900, Limoges had 35 factories, which employed close to 8,000 workers. In 1925, Limoges porcelain was shown at the International Exhibition of Modern Decorative and Industrial Arts — the design fair in Paris that brought global attention to the Art Deco style — where it garnered international acclaim.
During the 20th century, Limoges factories such as Bernardaud collaborated with a range of notable artists and designers, including Franz Bischoff, Joan Miró, Raymond Loewy, Alexander Calder and Julian Schnabel, to name a few.
Today, authentic Limoges porcelain tableware, vases and objets d’art continue to gain renown with collectors and design lovers all over the world.
Find an extensive collection of antique Limoges porcelain on 1stDibs.
Rosenthal White and Gold 1960s Porcelain Centerpiece
By Rosenthal
Located in Milano, MI
Rosenthal white and gold porcelain centerpiece, made in the 1960s Ø cm 37 Ø cm 21 h cm 14 Rosenthal is a well-known and respected German manufacturer of porcelain products. Rose...
Ceramic
Hand-Painted Molaroni Ceramic Vase from the 1940s
By Molaroni Pesaro
Located in Milano, MI
Hand-painted Molaroni ceramic vase, made in the 1940s. The vase has some chips and imperfections, as shown in the photos. More information/images available upon request. Ø cm 22 Ø c...
Ceramic
Potiche Decò in Porcellana Arzberg Dipinta a Mano Anni 30
By Arzberg
Located in Milano, MI
Potiche Art Deco in porcellana Arzberg dipinta a mano, realizzata negli anni '30 Ø cm 15.5 h cm 12 La Porcellana Arzberg è un marchio tedesco di porcellane con una storia che affon...
Porcelain
1940s Hand Painted Ceramic Vase by Rometti
By Rometti Ceramics 1
Located in Milano, MI
Hand-painted ceramic vase by Rometti, made in the 1940s Ø cm 14 h cm 16 Rometti is a renowned Italian ceramics company based in Umbertide, Italy. Founded in 1927, Rometti has a lon...
Ceramic
Hand Painted French Porcelain Perfume Burner Vase 1920s
Located in Milano, MI
Hand-painted French porcelain perfume burner vase, made in the early 20th century Ø cm 18 Ø cm 15 h cm 28 A vintage perfume burner is a decorative and functional object that allows...
Porcelain
Ceramic Bowl by Ceramiche Batignani from the 1950s
By Ceramiche Batignani
Located in Milano, MI
Ceramic bowl made by Ceramiche Batignani in the 1950s Ø cm 15 Ø cm 12 h cm 6 Batignani Ceramiche is a name synonymous with excellence in Italian ceramic art...
Ceramic
Italy Richard Ginori Mid-19th Century Porcelain Covered
By Richard Ginori
Located in Brescia, IT
This beautiful covered cup was painted with grace and reproducing a variety of flowers, butterflies and natural elements very detailed. Golden profiles. A joyful to look at it, a pie...
Porcelain
Little Porcelain Tureen Center Piece or Empty Pocket, French circa 1960
Located in Labrit, Landes
French little tureen from Henriot manufactory in Quimper, Britanny. The porcelain manufactories exist in Quimper since the 18th century. Decorated with patterns typical of Britanny, ...
Porcelain
Vintage 1960s Capodimonte Bonbon Porcelain Vase - Handcrafted Italian Masterpiec
Located in Manzano, IT
Vintage 1960s Capodimonte Bonbon Porcelain Vase - Handcrafted Italian Masterpiece Product Description: Step into the world of timeless elegance with this authentic Capodimonte Bonbon Porcelain Vase from the 1960s, a true Italian gem that exudes luxury and craftsmanship. Handcrafted in the renowned Capodimonte tradition, this exquisite vase is a one-of-a-kind decorative object, perfect for elevating any space with a touch of vintage sophistication. This delicate piece showcases the hallmark artistry of Capodimonte, known for its intricate detailing, rich glazing, and superior porcelain quality. Whether you're a collector or someone looking to add an extraordinary statement piece to your home, this vase offers both aesthetic beauty and historical value. Key Features: Authentic Capodimonte Porcelain: A mark of true Italian craftsmanship, each vase is hand-finished and made using age-old techniques passed down through generations of artisans. Vintage 1960s Design: Reflecting the golden era of Italian décor, this vase encapsulates the artistic trends of the 60s, making it a collectible item for vintage lovers. Exquisite Hand-Painted Detail: Featuring delicate floral motifs and gold accents that add opulence to any room, this vase has been meticulously hand-painted by skilled craftsmen. Timeless Home Accent: This versatile vase works perfectly as a standalone decorative piece or a complement to your existing home décor. Its vintage charm fits both contemporary and classic interiors. Perfect Condition: Carefully preserved over the decades, this Capodimonte vase maintains its original luster and impeccable detailing, ensuring it remains a standout piece in any collection. Dimensions: Height: 12 inches Diameter: 8 inches Why This Vase is a Must-Have: This vintage Capodimonte vase...
Ceramic
Small Ceramic Vase for Candy or Jewelry Box, 20th Century, Europe, 1960s
Located in 05-080 Hornowek, PL
Unique hand painted vase box for candies or jewelry box. Very good original vintage condition. 24k gold! Only one unique piece. Hand painted in 1960s in Greece.
Gold
Vintage Hand Painted Ceramic Centerpiece
Located in Milano, IT
Wonderful hand painted ceramic centerpiece made at the beginning of 900, of Chinese manufacture. The centerpiece has a circular shape and is totally made of red and white ceramic totally hand painted. It is composed by a central body useful as object holder, cookies or candies holder...
Porcelain
Mid-Century French Faïence Centerpiece from Rouen with Tureen, Platter and Lid
By Rouen
Located in Dallas, TX
This vibrant three-piece faïence centerpiece was crafted in Rouen, France, in the mid-20th century, drawing on the city’s centuries-old ceramic tradition. Known for its richly orname...
Ceramic, Faience
