Antique Old Abbey Limoges Bowl by Latrille Frères

 This gorgeous Old Abbey bowl was made in Limoges, France by Latrille Frères, active around 1899–1908. Some Old Abbey Limoges pieces feature artist signatures, such as this one signed “Barathé," which adds to its value. This signature indicates hand-painted craftsmanship, a hallmark of high-quality Limoges porcelain.

The embossed and scalloped rim and handles are trimmed with gilding. The vivid, beautifully painted Emperor tulips, both open and closed, are splashed on a shaded green background and framed with their leaves. The colors are so dramatic against the pure white porcelain. The tulips the artist painted on the back are a lovely extra touch.

Contrary to common belief, “Old Abbey” is not a pattern but a tribute to the Latrille brothers’ father, who ran the factory in a former abbey before his sons took over. {Latrille Frères means Latrille Brothers in French.}

The hallmark of Old Abbey Limoges is printed in green on the bottom, featuring “Limoges France” encircling a central star. It's accompanied by “Old Abbey” written in a banner over the word "Limoges" in a rectangle. These marks authenticate them as products of the Latrille Frères factory.

The bowl measures 10 inches across from pierced handle to pierced handle and 8 3/4 inches in diameter not including them. It stands 2 1/4 inches tall and weighs a bit over a pound. The bowl is in nice antique condition with no cracks, chips or repairs, just some edge wear to the gilding on the rim.

This luscious antique Limoges bowl will be treasured for many, many years to come.

© PrimpingYourHome.com

PYH 4328