Antique Porcelain

Authenticating a piece of antique porcelain begins at the base: a factory mark — Meissen's crossed swords, Sèvres' interlaced Ls, or a Limoges atelier's stamp — is the first and most reliable indicator. The absence of a mark does not rule out age, but it calls for closer scrutiny of the paste, the glaze and the style of the decoration. Hand-painted porcelain dinner services from the 19th century typically feature fine-gold gilding whose natural wear along the rims is itself a sign of genuine age.

Prices vary widely depending on the manufactory, the period and condition. A set of standard 19th-century plates can be acquired for a few dozen pounds, while a period Sèvres porcelain vase or a signed Meissen figurine may reach several thousand. Always check for hairline cracks, chips or concealed repairs: raking light and a UV lamp will reveal most restoration work that is invisible to the naked eye.

Documented provenance — an old receipt, a probate inventory, an auction house label — consistently adds value and simplifies any future resale. For everyday care, avoid the dishwasher for pieces with antique gilded or polychrome decoration; gentle hand-washing in warm soapy water is all that is needed to preserve the enamel and gilding.

On Antiquités en France, every piece of antique porcelain is offered by a verified professional dealer who can supply detailed photographs, exact dimensions and full provenance information. Browse our antique kitchenware section for complementary serving pieces, and contact the dealer directly with any questions before you buy.