Antique porcelain tea set with roses — Aux Lions de Faïence, Paris (6909)

Approximate dimensions:
Jug height: ~23 cm
Sugar bowl height: ~15 cm
Milk jug height: ~12 cm
Cup height: ~6 cm
Saucer diameter: ~13 cm Antique Parisian porcelain tea set with roses in Belle Époque style A Belle Époque moment, Marcel Proust: In his quiet, cork-lined Parisian bedroom, the writer slowly sipped linden tea. On a small nightstand sat an exquisite, snow-white porcelain set, recently purchased from the famous “Aux Lions de Faïence” shop on Rue de Rivoli. Its surface was adorned with delicate pink roses and greenish trellis motifs, subtly emerging in the dim lamplight, creating an illusion of a spring garden in the very heart of the city. He picked up the delicate cup, feeling the undulating relief of the porcelain and the fine gilding along its rim. This vessel was not merely an everyday object; its refinement and aristocratic aura were like a key to the past. Gazing at the floral patterns, his thoughts drifted to childhood summers in Illiers, where gardens smelled of roses and afternoon tea was a sacred family ritual. As he dipped a small madeleine into his tea and brought it to his lips, a wave of scents and tastes brought back an entire lost time. This luxurious Parisian set, from which he sipped his drink, became a silent companion on his greatest literary journey, preserving within it that ineffable elegance and melancholy he so desperately sought to immortalize on his pages. Introduction
This magnificent coffee and tea set for six people is a classic example of the romantic aesthetic of the Belle Époque era. It consists of 15 pieces: a capacious jug, a sugar bowl, a milk jug, and six cups with saucers. The set captivates with its airy, spring-like design and top-class execution. Period of Manufacture
Late 19th / Early 20th Century, France. Manufacturer and Signature
The bases of the vessels bear a green stamp with a lion and the inscription “AUX LIONS DE FAÏENCE, RUE DE RIVOLI 90, PARIS”, as well as the indication “FRANCE”. “Aux Lions de Faïence” was one of the most prestigious porcelain and faience retail salons in Paris, which commissioned high-quality tableware (most often from Limoges manufactories) and sold it under its own brand to Parisian high society. Design and Decor
The set is made of very thin, translucent snow-white porcelain. Its forms are enriched with relief, wavy, and floral motif imprints within the porcelain mass itself. The decor consists of delicate, romantic bouquets of pink roses and swirling lilac-toned flowers, intertwined in a light green, illusory garden trellis. The rims of the vessels, handles, and the finials of the lids are delicately accented with gold lines. Application
This set is ideal for an elegant afternoon tea or morning coffee within the family circle. It will bring a unique romantic charm to your dining room or living room and serve as a sophisticated centerpiece for your table setting. Condition
Excellent antique condition. The porcelain has no cracks or chips. Considering its age, there is very minimal and natural wear of the gilding on the upper rims of the vessels. The condition of the item is fully reflected in the photographs.