1970s Limoges "Pondichéry" Demitasse Cup & Saucer

Details

Description

Vintage 1972 Bernardaud Limoges Demitasse Cup & Saucer

​Pattern: Pondichéry | Shape: Phoebe
​Elevate your espresso service with this exquisite … Read more Vintage 1972 Bernardaud Limoges Demitasse Cup & Saucer

​Pattern: Pondichéry | Shape: Phoebe
​Elevate your espresso service with this exquisite piece of French artistry. Manufactured in 1972 in the heart of Limoges, France, this demitasse set captures the refined "Phoebe" silhouette—characterized by its graceful, slightly flared rim and delicate handle—paired with the rare and sought-after "Pondichéry" motif. Bernardaud is essentially the "haute couture" of French porcelain, and the 1970s era produced some of their most evocative, travel-inspired designs.

Design & Aesthetic
The Pondichéry pattern is a masterclass in 18th-century "Indienne" style, drawing inspiration from the historic French colonial trading post in India. It features:
Intricate Florals: A sophisticated palette of deep madder red, muted blues, and gold accents.
The Phoebe Shape: A mid-century modern evolution of classic porcelain design, offering a lightweight feel and a perfectly balanced saucer.
Gilded Details: Hand-finished gold trim that catches the light beautifully, emphasizing the pristine white kaolin clay for which Bernardaud is world-renowned.

Product Details
Brand: Bernardaud & Co.
Origin: Limoges, France (Stamped with authentic 1972 backstamp).
Material: Fine Bone China / Hard-paste Porcelain.
Condition: Excellent vintage condition. No chips, cracks, or crazing. The gilding remains vibrant and intact.
Dimensions: Perfectly sized for a standard double espresso or a traditional Turkish coffee.
The extensive, rich gold ornamentation precludes the use of microwave ovens and automatic dishwashers to clean this.

Why It’s a Must-Have
Whether you are a collector of fine French porcelain or a lover of "Grandmillennial" decor, this set is a conversation starter. It bridges the gap between mid-century minimalism and classical botanical illustration, making it a timeless addition to any display cabinet or morning ritual.

Collector's Note: The 1970s marked a pivot for Bernardaud toward more globally inspired patterns like Pondichéry, making pieces from this specific decade highly collectible for their fusion of tradition and 20th-century flair. See less