Antique porcelain cup and saucer — Vieux Paris (6894)

Cup height: ~6 cm Saucer diameter: ~13 cm Approximate dimensions.

Antique porcelain cup and saucer in the Empire style

A snapshot from the Empire era, Honoré de Balzac: In the dimly lit Parisian study, where the air was filled with the rich aroma of strong, black coffee and fresh ink, the writer toiled tirelessly through the night. He briefly set aside his quill, rubbed his tired eyes, and his ink-stained fingers reached for the delicate, gold-embellished porcelain cup resting on the manuscript pages.

His thoughts drifted back to the previous afternoon spent in Juliette Récamier’s renowned salon at L’Abbaye-aux-Bois. There, amidst Chateaubriand’s poetic passages and Gérard’s sharp art critiques, he had observed the elegant society sipping tea from just such snow-white, gilded vessels. The refined, aristocratic atmosphere and the quiet clinking of porcelain had provided the inspiration he needed for a new chapter, offering a glimpse into the subtlest strings of the high society soul.

Now, alone with his characters, the candlelight danced vibrantly over the thick, gilded floral motifs and the cup’s uniquely sculpted handle. As he slowly sipped his drink, the pure porcelain and the cool perfection of the Empire style created a powerful contrast to the chaotic human dramas he was weaving onto paper, offering a brief moment of peace before the morning light.

Introduction This exquisite porcelain cup and saucer is a magnificent example of 19th-century ceramic art, traditionally known as Vieux Paris (Old Paris). It embodies the aesthetic of the Empire and early Romantic periods, combining flawless form with exceptionally luxurious and rich gilding.

Period of Manufacture First half of the 19th century, France.

Manufacturer and Signature As is characteristic and entirely authentic for most Vieux Paris pieces, no manufacturer’s marks are found on the bases of the vessels. In 19th-century Paris and its surroundings, numerous small, independent, and highly skilled porcelain decorating workshops operated, often working for private aristocratic commissions, leaving their creations unmarked.

Design and Decor The item is crafted from the highest quality snow-white porcelain. Its design is dominated by a striking and very thick gold decor – voluminous floral and leaf motifs, meticulously hand-painted on the white background, complemented by classic gold bands. The lower part of the cup is adorned with elegant, vertical fluting. Particular attention is drawn to the cup’s sculptural handle, topped with a finely crafted rosette or floral motif.

Application This vessel is ideally suited as an exclusive collector’s item or a luxurious accent for serving coffee on special occasions. It will look wonderful in an antique display cabinet or on a classic tea table, bringing the true elegance of a 19th-century salon into the room.

Condition Excellent antique condition. The porcelain has no chips, cracks, or hairlines. Given the venerable age of the vessel, there is natural, light wear to the gilding on the decor, handle, and rim, which only adds historical depth and soul to the item. The condition of the item is fully reflected in the photographs.