Mid 19th Century French "Vieux Paris" Footed Demitasse Cup & Saucer – Louis Philippe Style

Details

Description

This is a stunning example of French hard-paste porcelain from the "Vieux Paris" (Old Paris) period, circa 1830–1840. This footed … Read more This is a stunning example of French hard-paste porcelain from the "Vieux Paris" (Old Paris) period, circa 1830–1840. This footed demitasse cup and matching saucer feature a vibrant "Pompadour" magenta ground, providing a bold backdrop for a romanticized "Troubadour style" frieze. The scene depicts identical jousting knights, trumpeters, and medieval castle turrets in a fine-line black transfer, a hallmark of the Gothic Revival movement popular during the Restoration.
​The set is distinguished by its high-level craftsmanship: the flared "Empire" shape cup features a delicate scroll handle and a classic tripod base. Of particular note is the hand-chased (incised) gold gilding on the saucer’s border and the cup’s feet, which provides a rich, tactile texture that catches the light beautifully—a sign of a premium Parisian decorating atelier.

Condition:
Excellent antique condition. The hand-burnished gold shows minimal wear, and the magenta ground remains vivid. No chips, cracks, or crazing.

Markings:
The base of both pieces is marked with a gold interlocking "RW" logo and the pattern/shape number "31," alongside the script "Vieux L Paris."
The markings are indicative of the Paris atelier responsible for the ornamentation, rather than the manufacturer - almost certainly one of the better Limoges firms.

Dimensions:
Cup: 2.75" long x 2.125" wide x 3.25" tall
Saucer: 4.50" wide See less