Pair Of Paris Porcelain Fruit Bowls With A Barbel Design, Louis XVI Period

An elegant and rare pair of square fruit bowls with undulating rims and scalloped edges, made of Paris hard-paste porcelain. They feature a delicate polychrome decoration known as “aux barbeaux” (or “sowing of cornflowers”), which was very fashionable during the reign of Louis XVI and particularly favored by Queen Marie Antoinette.
The base of the bowl is adorned with a delicate scattering of stylized cornflower sprigs, while the scalloped rim features a continuous garland of foliage intertwined with flower buds. The rim is highlighted by a fine gold fillet that accentuates the sinuous movement of the pieces. These shaped pieces are attributed to the prestigious Clignancourt Manufactory, known as the “Manufacture de Monsieur” (placed under the patronage of the Count of Provence, the king’s brother and future Louis XVIII). This manufactory distinguished itself in the late 18th century for the remarkable whiteness of its porcelain body and the finesse of its floral decorations.

• Period: Louis XVI period (circa 1780–1790)
• Material: Hard Paris porcelain
• Condition: A chip on the underside at one of the corners, but it does not affect the piece’s stability and is not visible when it is placed on the table.
• Dimensions: 21 x 21 cm