Important Factors to Remember When Purchasing French Limoges Boxes
For those who love, appreciate and collect French Limoges Boxes, authenticity and artistry matter immensely. Limoges Box collectors always look for new styles and designs. In recent times, fake trinket boxes are found everywhere so Limoges collectors have to ensure that the porcelain boxes they are purchasing are authentic and have been entirely produced in Limoges, France.
Below are a few factors that can help when making a decision to purchase.
Surface decoration. Some Limoges boxes may have transfers or decals used instead of painting. Some may have a combination of decals and highlighting stroke work. These boxes usually are marked “Rehausse Main” meaning “enhanced by hand”. Limoges boxes that are entirely hand-painted bear the designation “Peint Main”, which means “hand-painted”.
Backstamp and Mark. All authentic Limoges boxes are either signed by hand or bear the insignia of the manufacturing artist. The mark should include the designation “Limoges, France” as guarantee of the origin of manufacture as well as “Peint Main” meaning “painted by hand”. Some artists include their initials or name as well as the brand mark of the manufacturer. All backstamps must be under the glaze and irremovable.
Workmanship. Another very important factor is the quality of hand-painting. Limoges artists have access to a selection of blank boxes from general moulds. You may find the same model Limoges box made by various artists, from amateur to master artists. Of course, the quality of workmanship is vastly different. To the avid collector, the artistry and detail of the painting is of great importance.
Detail. When selecting a Limoges box, pay attention to the detail in painting and the number of colors used. When painting the box, the artist has to use one color at a time. The box receives a firing between each coloring. Therefore, more colors, means much greater time and effort has gone into painting the Limoges box.
Uniqueness. Some Limoges manufacturers offer exclusive shapes and models. These pieces are very desirable as they are made in limited numbers.
Condition. A new Limoges box must be in Excellent Condition. If purchasing a retired piece or an antique box, always check for its condition. Make sure the piece is without chips, cracks, paint loss or broken hinges.
Source. Finally It is a very important to purchase from a reputable dealer who is knowledgeable about French Limoges and offers a great selection.
Ultimately, the most important criteria is that you find the Limoges box beautiful and appealing. If so, you will enjoy the piece for all time.
www.LimogesBoxCollector.com is one of the largest direct importers of French Limoges boxes in the US. To view an extensive selection of Limoges boxes, including numerous exclusive pieces, please visit LimogesBoxCollector.com.
About the Author
Vivianne Smith is a an author with expertise in porcelain and fine china collectibles. Her travels to Europe and visiting many manufacturers’ factories and workshops has provided her with a wealth of information regarding the production of these works of art.
Debby Dubay: Limoges Antiques
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