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A stunning antique French faïence bowl by Longchamp, exquisitely hand-painted with rich blue and warm floral motifs with chicken and butterfly, framed by delicate scrolling details. With its fluted body, graceful double handles, and elegant pedestal base, this piece is a testament to 19th-century French ceramic artistry.
Measuring 11 cm in diameter and 9.5 cm in height, the bowl’s petite yet substantial form suggests it may have originally been used as a sugar bowl, potpourri dish, or decorative serving piece. The hand-drawn quality of the design lends it an unmistakable charm and uniqueness, making it a true collector’s piece.
A Piece with a Story
Founded in Bourgogne, France, Longchamp ceramics have long been celebrated for their exquisite craftsmanship and delicate faïence designs. French faïence, a tin-glazed earthenware, became highly sought after in the 18th and 19th centuries, admired for its intricate patterns, rich colours, and enduring beauty.
This piece, with its vibrant floral motif and graceful silhouette, would have adorned a refined provincial or Parisian home, serving both practical and decorative purposes. Today, it remains a charming relic of French heritage, ready to add a touch of timeless elegance to any space.
Details & Condition:
- Maker: Longchamp (marked)
- Material: Hand-painted French faïence
- Dimensions: 11 cm (D) x 9.5 cm (H) (4.3" x 3.7")
- Condition: Exceptional, with no visible cracks or chips—gentle age wear only, consistent with its timeworn beauty.
Historical possibilities for this unique piece
With its high walls, pedestal base, and double handles, this Longchamp faïence bowl was likely designed for one of the following historical uses:
1. Bouillon Bowl (Bol à Bouillon)
- The pedestal base raises the bowl slightly off the table, which was a common feature in bouillon or consommé bowls used for serving hot broths.
- The two handles allowed for easy lifting and sipping, as bouillon was often enjoyed directly from the bowl in refined dining settings.
- These types of bowls were frequently used in formal 19th-century French dining.
2. Small Serving Dish (Sucrier or Sauce Bowl)
- The fluted body and handles suggest it could have also been used as a sucrier (sugar bowl), possibly with a now-missing lid.
- The pedestal base would elevate it slightly, making it easy to pass around a table.
- It might have also been used for serving sauces or condiments, as French table settings often included small, elegant vessels for accompaniments.
A stunning antique French faïence bowl by Longchamp, exquisitely hand-painted with rich blue and warm floral motifs with chicken and butterfly, framed by delicate scrolling details. With its fluted body, graceful double handles, and elegant pedestal base, this piece is a testament to 19th-century French ceramic artistry.
Measuring 11 cm in diameter and 9.5 cm in height, the bowl’s petite yet substantial form suggests it may have originally been used as a sugar bowl, potpourri dish, or decorative serving piece. The hand-drawn quality of the design lends it an unmistakable charm and uniqueness, making it a true collector’s piece.
A Piece with a Story
Founded in Bourgogne, France, Longchamp ceramics have long been celebrated for their exquisite craftsmanship and delicate faïence designs. French faïence, a tin-glazed earthenware, became highly sought after in the 18th and 19th centuries, admired for its intricate patterns, rich colours, and enduring beauty.
This piece, with its vibrant floral motif and graceful silhouette, would have adorned a refined provincial or Parisian home, serving both practical and decorative purposes. Today, it remains a charming relic of French heritage, ready to add a touch of timeless elegance to any space.
Details & Condition:
- Maker: Longchamp (marked)
- Material: Hand-painted French faïence
- Dimensions: 11 cm (D) x 9.5 cm (H) (4.3" x 3.7")
- Condition: Exceptional, with no visible cracks or chips—gentle age wear only, consistent with its timeworn beauty.
Historical possibilities for this unique piece
With its high walls, pedestal base, and double handles, this Longchamp faïence bowl was likely designed for one of the following historical uses:
1. Bouillon Bowl (Bol à Bouillon)
- The pedestal base raises the bowl slightly off the table, which was a common feature in bouillon or consommé bowls used for serving hot broths.
- The two handles allowed for easy lifting and sipping, as bouillon was often enjoyed directly from the bowl in refined dining settings.
- These types of bowls were frequently used in formal 19th-century French dining.
2. Small Serving Dish (Sucrier or Sauce Bowl)
- The fluted body and handles suggest it could have also been used as a sucrier (sugar bowl), possibly with a now-missing lid.
- The pedestal base would elevate it slightly, making it easy to pass around a table.
- It might have also been used for serving sauces or condiments, as French table settings often included small, elegant vessels for accompaniments.
