Vintage French blue jug and bowl from 1900s

Collecting vintage French ceramics

The popularity of collected brands of vintage French ceramics can vary depending on personal preferences, trends, rarity and historical significance.

However, several French ceramics brands have gained recognition and are frequently sought after by collectors.

Here are some of the most popular collected brands of vintage French ceramics:

Limoges

Limoges porcelain is world-renowned for its quality and craftsmanship. The Limoges region in France has been a hub for porcelain production since the 18th century. Pieces from Limoges often feature intricate hand-painted designs and are highly collectible.

Quimper 

Quimper pottery, produced in the town of Quimper in Brittany, is famous for its distinctive hand-painted designs, typically featuring Breton folk motifs, including people in traditional dress. These ceramics are cherished by collectors for their unique charm.

Majolica

Majolica pottery, known for its colorful and highly decorative glazes, has been produced in various regions of France, including Sarreguemines and Onnaing.

These pieces are characterized by their bright colours and intricate patterns.

Sevres

Sevres porcelain is one of the oldest and most prestigious porcelain manufacturers in France. Founded in the 18th century, Sevres porcelain is known for its fine quality and often features intricate hand-painted designs, gilding, and luxurious finishes.

Gien

Gien, a French ceramics company established in the 19th century, is known for its hand-painted earthenware and faience pieces. Collectors appreciate Gien's artistic designs and durable craftsmanship.

Longchamp

Longchamp pottery, founded in the 18th century in the Alsace region, is recognized for its stoneware and earthenware products. They are known for their rustic charm and often feature blue and white designs.

Sarreguemines

Sarreguemines, located in northeastern France, produced a wide range of ceramics, including majolica, stoneware, and earthenware.

Their pieces often feature detailed designs and historical motifs.

Orchies

Orchies pottery, from the Orchies region, is known for its art pottery and decorative pieces. Some Orchies ceramics feature Art Nouveau and Art Deco designs, making them popular among collectors of these styles.

Desvres (or Desvres-Fourmaintraux):

Desvres pottery is celebrated for its intricate hand-painted faience pieces. These ceramics often depict scenes from French history and folklore.

HB Quimper

Henriot Quimper, often referred to as HB Quimper, is another notable Quimper pottery producer. Their hand-painted pieces are highly collectible and often feature Breton designs.

Remember that the value and popularity of specific brands and pieces can change over time based on trends in the collector's market.

Additionally, the condition and rarity of individual items can greatly influence their desirability and price.

To identify many historic French brands see https://www.infofaience.com/en/

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