An antique French earthenware serving bowl (légumier) decorated in a striking cobalt blue transfer print depicting flowering hibiscus or mallow blossoms on leafy stems against a warm ivory glaze. The deep round bowl features molded scroll handles attached at opposing sides and a raised footrim. The underside bears the clear circular retailer's mark for the famous Parisian emporium Aux Lions de Faïence.

Condition Report & Provenance

• Material / Technique: transfer-printed earthenware (faïence fine)
• Origin: France
• Period: late 19th century
• Markings: stamped in blue underglaze to base "AUX LIONS DE FAÏENCE / RUE DE RIVOLI 90 / PARIS"
• Retailer / Dealer label: Aux Lions de Faïence, 90 Rue de Rivoli, Paris
• Decorative Details: blue floral sprays on ivory glaze, molded scrolled handles
• Condition: fine crack running across the interior base, light interior discoloration/staining, minor wear and small chip to footrim

History

Aux Lions de Faïence, situated at 90 Rue de Rivoli in Paris, was a premier 19th-century Parisian emporium specializing in fine ceramics, table glass, and earthenware. The store commissioned and retailed high-quality transferware from major French ceramic manufactures including Sarreguemines, Choisy-le-Roi, Creil-Montereau, and Keller & Guérin St. Clément.