Antique French Limoges Covered Sugar Bowl - Mid-19th Century

Details

Description

….Discovered in Paris | Rare Early Limoges with Historical Provenance
A magnificent antique French porcelain covered sugar bowl crafted at … Read more ….Discovered in Paris | Rare Early Limoges with Historical Provenance
A magnificent antique French porcelain covered sugar bowl 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.
Part of a remarkable tea service—other pieces from this set available separately in our shop, including teapot, creamer, and serving plateaus.
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 sugar bowl 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.
Acquired during our recent Parisian adventure, this piece represents the finest of French porcelain artistry from Limoges' most celebrated period.
Exquisite Artistry
The sugar bowl showcases the pinnacle of French porcelain craftsmanship:

Hand-painted wildflowers and grasses adorning both sides of bowl and lid
Delicate floral bouquets in hand-painted enamels over transfers
Beautiful gilt decoration with leaves, flourishes, and lacy flowers at rim and borders
Gilt enhancements at handles and lid finial
Generous proportions and elegant form characteristic of mid-19th century French taste
Matching lid with ornate gilt finial completing the refined presentation

Specifications

Dimensions: Approximately 5.5" diameter x 8" tall (with lid)
Origin: Limoges, France
Maker: Gerard DuFressis (initials impressed in porcelain base)
Period: Mid-19th Century
Decoration: Hand-painted florals with gilt embellishment
Marks: Authentic maker's initials impressed in porcelain
Features: Complete with matching original lid

Condition & Character
Very good antique condition with no chips, cracks, or damage. Shows only some expected gilt rub to the rim, handles, and lid finial that speaks to its authentic age and gentle use over more than a century. This patina adds to the piece's historical character and confirms its age.
Why This Sugar Bowl is Extraordinary

Authenticated Gerard DuFressis maker's marks impressed in porcelain
Complete with original lid - many antique sugar bowls have lost their covers
Mid-19th century dating places this in Limoges' most celebrated period
Historical connection to the DuFressis-Haviland collaboration
Museum-quality hand painting and gilt work
Family provenance - used and cherished for generations
Investment quality - early DuFressis pieces are increasingly scarce
Impressive scale - substantial size makes a striking display piece

This is not merely a sugar bowl—it's a piece of French porcelain history representing the golden age of Limoges craftsmanship.
Collecting Notes
A rare opportunity to own an authenticated early Limoges piece with exceptional provenance and artistry. The impressed maker's marks confirm attribution, while the mid-19th century dating and DuFressis provenance make this a museum-worthy acquisition.
The completeness of this piece—retaining its original matching lid—adds significantly to its value and desirability. Perfect as a standalone collector's piece, elegant storage for jewelry or keepsakes, or to reunite with other elements of this remarkable service (available separately in our shop).

Listing Details
Dimensions: 5.5"W × 5.5"D × 8"H
Styles: French Country, Victorian, Rococo
Brand: Limoges, France - Gerard DuFressis
Period: Mid-19th Century (circa 1850s-1860s)
Item Type: Vintage, Antique or Pre-owned
Materials: Fine French Porcelain
Condition: Very Good Condition, Original Condition Unaltered, Age-Appropriate Wear
Color: White with Hand-Painted Florals and Gilt
Condition Notes: Very good antique condition with no chips, cracks, or damage. Expected gilt wear to rim, handles, and lid finial consistent with age and gentle use over 150+ years. Complete with original matching lid. Maker's initials clearly visible impressed in base. See less