At Tora and Finch we are a huge fan of Limoges of course! However, we have many customers speak of Limoges porcelain as if Limoges was a manufacturer, rather than the region in France in which many porcelain manufacturers set up shop.
Limoges porcelain has a long and fascinating history that dates back to the late 18th century.
The story of Limoges porcelain begins with the discovery of kaolin, a type of white clay used to make porcelain, in the Limoges region of France in the 1760s. This discovery led to the establishment of the first porcelain factory in Limoges in 1771 by brothers Massié and Fourneira Grellet. The factory quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality porcelain, which was in demand across Europe.
In the early 19th century, Limoges porcelain became more widely available as other manufacturers set up factories in the region. These manufacturers included Haviland & Co., which was founded in 1842 by American David Haviland and his brother Daniel. Haviland & Co. would go on to become one of the most famous Limoges porcelain manufacturers, known for their exquisite designs and high-quality materials.
Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, Limoges porcelain continued to be prized for its beauty and quality. Many famous artists and designers, such as Henri Désiré Porchier and Paul Jouve, worked with Limoges porcelain, creating stunning pieces that are now highly sought after by collectors.
While the production of Limoges porcelain has declined somewhat over the years, it is still a significant industry in the region, with several factories producing fine porcelain using traditional techniques.
In addition to porcelain, Limoges is also known for its enamel work, which involves fusing powdered glass to metal to create intricate designs. This technique has been practiced in Limoges since the 15th century and remains a significant part of the region's artistic heritage.
Today, Limoges porcelain remains one of the most prestigious types of porcelain in the world, with its delicate beauty and rich history continuing to captivate collectors and art lovers alike.
What's better than a table full of Limoges? A tablescape of mismatched Limoges porcelain a modern nod to days gone by. At Tora and Finch we are always excited to help mix-n-match. Send us photos, questions, etc. We love to see complete new setting photos as well!
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