Set Of 12 Porcelain Plates From Paris, Rihouët Factory – Paris, Circa 1830–1840.

An elegant set of 12 Paris porcelain plates from the Rihouët factory, bearing the printed mark "Rihouët – Paris" in red on the reverse. The Rihouët firm, established on the rue de la Paix in the first half of the 19th century, was among the most highly regarded Parisian manufacturers for the quality of its clay, the delicacy of its forms, and the refinement of its decoration. The typology of the plates, the color of the ground, and the naturalistic style of the floral motifs place this set in the 1830s–1840s, a period of peak production during the July Monarchy. A refined pattern with an almond-green ground and gold highlights. Each plate features: A wide rim in a luminous, deep almond green; a double gold band applied in fine gold delicately highlighting the contours; a subtly scalloped edge, typical of Parisian productions of this period; a pure white central basin that showcases the painted decoration. The contrast between the richly nuanced green and the white center lends the whole a restrained and balanced elegance, characteristic of prestigious tableware made in Paris around 1835. Each bouquet is unique – the work of a decorative painter. Each plate is adorned in the center with a polychrome bouquet entirely hand-painted. No two compositions are identical. This decorative technique – particularly costly to execute – was reserved for high-end services. It required the expertise of a decorative painter skilled in botanical drawing, subtle gradations, and plays of transparency. The compositions artfully combine: Roses and garden roses with delicately modeled petals; Ranunculus and pompon flowers with generous volumes; Anemones with contrasting centers; Tulips, pansies, bellflowers, forget-me-nots, and meadow flowers; Foliage with finely veined and precisely rendered. The color palette—powdery pinks, golden yellows, deep blues, rich purples, and touches of orange—is rich yet perfectly harmonious. The decoration reveals high-quality workmanship, with subtle shading, supple modeling, and precise lines. Context and production quality: The green-ground services enhanced with gold are among the most elegant productions of Parisian manufacturers in the 1830s and 1840s. Unlike repetitive decorations created using stencils or transfers, these entirely hand-painted bouquets demonstrate a quest for uniqueness and refinement intended for a wealthy bourgeois clientele, sensitive to the decorative arts and the elegance of the table. This set is entirely consistent with the documented production of the Rihouët factory and can be compared to green-ground services dating from around 1835 known from international auctions. Condition: Very good overall condition for a set of this period. Slight, even wear to the gilding on the rim, consistent with age and use. Floral decorations in very good condition, with fresh and well-preserved colors. One plate has a small chip on the underside, discreet and not visible when displayed. No cracks or repairs. Dimensions: Diameter: 22 cm