At The Table Of Emperor Napoleon III: A 19th-century Sèvres Porcelain Dinner Service For 12

Imperial dinner service for 12 guests in Sèvres porcelain from Napoleon III’s Ball Service
Hard porcelain from the Imperial Sèvres Manufactory, decorated in gold with the letter N on a double L for Louis-Napoléon beneath a crown.


Set an imperial table with this set of 12 porcelain dinner plates from Napoleon III’s service.

Stamped marks on the back indicating manufacture and decoration, all dating from the 1850s–60s.

After coming to power, Napoleon III revived the use of the grand Sèvres services, which had been particularly developed under Louis-Philippe, though with less zeal, retaining the Service des Offices, des Bals, and des Princes, and adapting them with his monogram. The Château de Fontainebleau—to name just one—still preserves numerous pieces from this prestigious service today.

Napoleon III’s Ball Service, which is not affiliated with any particular residence, was used for grand receptions, galas, and ceremonies that featured lavish banquets. It consisted of plates of all sizes and an immense variety of shapes.

Excellent overall condition, no chips or repairs, very slight wear to the gilding.


Diameter: 24 cm