Edmé Samson Paris Porcelain Tea Caddy — “God Save the King,” 19th Century, Chinese Export Style

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A finely painted porcelain tea caddy by Samson, Paris, dating to the Edmé Samson period (circa 1850–1890). This elegant piece … Read more A finely painted porcelain tea caddy by Samson, Paris, dating to the Edmé Samson period (circa 1850–1890). This elegant piece was crafted in imitation of 18th-century Chinese export tea caddies made for the English market, and features a beautifully enameled armorial crest crowned by a royal coronet and flanked by neoclassical drapery and laurel sprays. Below, a red ribbon bears the royalist motto: “God Save the King.”

The form and decoration are inspired by famille rose porcelain, using a vibrant polychrome palette of rose, green, and gold enamels. The slightly molded rectangular body is topped with a cylindrical neck and fitted with a later gilt metal cover.

Produced during the tenure of Edmé Samson (1810–1891) — founder of the Samson manufactory in Paris — this piece reflects the firm’s dedication to creating high-quality reproductions for 19th-century collectors who wished to preserve or complete their sets of 18th-century Chinese and European porcelain.
• Maker: Samson, Paris
• Date: Circa 1850–1890 (Edmé Samson period)
• Style: Chinese export revival in famille rose palette
• Decoration: Hand-painted armorial crest, coronet, and royalist motto
• Material: Porcelain with enamel decoration and later gilt metal lid
• Condition: Very good antique condition; minor wear to enamel and gilding; no chips or cracks observed
• Dimensions: 11.5 cm H × 9.5 cm W × 6.5 cm D (approx. 4.5” × 3.75” × 2.5”)

A rare and refined example of 19th-century chinoiserie revival porcelain, ideal for collectors of armorial wares, export-style tea caddies, or the distinctive legacy of Edmé Samson’s Paris workshop. See less