Exceptional Antique French Limoges Tea Set by Gerard DuFressis - Mid-19th Century

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Exceptional Antique French Limoges Tea Set by Gerard DuFressis - Mid-19th Century
Discovered in Paris | Rare Early Limoges with … Read more Exceptional Antique French Limoges Tea Set by Gerard DuFressis - Mid-19th Century
Discovered in Paris | Rare Early Limoges with Historical Provenance
Also from our recent Parisian adventure... For your consideration, a magnificent antique French porcelain tea set crafted at Limoges by the esteemed Gerard DuFressis. This exceptional piece bears his initials impressed in the porcelain on the base, marking it as an authentic work from this celebrated artisan.
Historical Significance & Provenance
The DuFressis family worked closely with the legendary Havilands during Limoges' golden era, first as decorators before establishing their own distinguished company. Whether this exquisite set was made by Haviland for DuFressis or potted by DuFressis himself remains beautifully mysterious, but it is certainly an early piece dating to the middle years of the 19th century—making it a true collector's treasure.
The Complete Set
Tea Pot: Measures approximately 6.5" diameter x 9.5" tall, holding approximately 6 cups
Large Sugar Bowl: Measures approximately 5.5" diameter x 8" tall
Creamer: Measures approximately 4" x 5.75"
Two Serving Plateaus: From a different maker but used by the same family as a complete service (9.5" x 9.5" x 2.25" on footed pedestal bases)
Exquisite Artistry
Each piece showcases the pinnacle of French porcelain artistry:

Hand-painted wildflowers and grasses adorning both sides and tops
Delicate floral bouquets in hand-painted enamels over transfers
Beautiful gilt decoration with leaves, flourishes, and lacy flowers at rims and borders
Gilt enhancements at spouts, handles, and rims
Serving plateaus feature stunning gilt decoration on their footed pedestal bases

Condition & Character
All pieces are in very good condition with no damage, showing only some expected gilt rub to the rims and handles that speaks to their authentic age and gentle use over more than a century. The two serving plateaus each have an old repaired break (clearly shown in photos), adding to their history and character while remaining fully functional.
Why This Set is Extraordinary

Authentic Gerard DuFressis maker's marks impressed in porcelain
Mid-19th century dating places this in Limoges' most celebrated period
Historical connection to the DuFressis-Haviland collaboration
Complete service including rare matching serving plateaus
Museum-quality hand painting and gilt work
Family provenance - used as a complete service for generations

This is not merely a tea set—it's a piece of French porcelain history representing the golden age of Limoges craftsmanship.
A rare opportunity to own an authenticated early Limoges piece with exceptional provenance and artistry.

Authenticity: Maker's initials impressed in porcelain confirm attribution
Rarity: Early DuFressis pieces are increasingly scarce in today's market
Investment Quality: Historical significance and condition make this a museum-worthy acquisition See less