Zophi
Porcelain plate with hand-painted floral decoration and gold trim by Haviland Limoges

Porcelain plate with hand-painted floral decoration and gold trim by Haviland Limoges

History

Haviland & Co. was established in Limoges, France in 1842 by American entrepreneur David Haviland, becoming one of the most prestigious porcelain manufacturers of the 19th and early 20th centuries. The company specialized in fine dinnerware with delicate hand-painted floral motifs and elaborate gold embellishments, exporting extensively to the United States where their pieces became highly sought after by affluent households. This plate appears to date from the 1890s era, during the height of Haviland's artistic production when naturalistic floral designs were particularly fashionable. Haviland Limoges porcelain remains highly collectible among antique china enthusiasts, particularly those who appreciate French decorative arts and Victorian-era table settings. Collectors value these pieces for their exceptional craftsmanship, the quality of the hand-painted decoration, and their historical significance as examples of Franco-American trade and taste during the Gilded Age. The combination of delicate floral artistry and luxurious gold trim makes these plates appealing to both serious porcelain collectors and those seeking elegant vintage tableware for display or special occasions.

Origin

Limoges, France

Maker

Haviland & Co.

Time period

circa 1890s