Object Description
Antique Sèvres-style cobalt blue porcelain tea set with a fitted case
French, Late 19th Century
Smallest (teapot): Height 15cm, width 18cm, depth 11cm
Largest (tray): Height 3cm, width 34cm, depth 26cm
Case: Height 17cm, width 48cm, depth 37cm
This superb late 19th century tea service showcases the sophistication and artistry of Sèvres-inspired porcelain. Its striking cobalt blue ground, enriched with gilt detailing and jewelled accents, reflects the elegance associated with aristocratic taste.
Sèvres porcelain, celebrated from the 18th century onwards, remained a benchmark for European manufacturers throughout the 19th century. Renowned for vibrant coloured grounds, refined gilding, and delicate floral or figural decoration, the style was synonymous with luxury. By the latter part of the century, finely crafted portable tea services were in demand, blending practicality with artistic refinement for the discerning collector.
The set includes a shaped oval tray, a teapot with cover and naturalistic branch handle, a sugar bowl with cover, a tripod milk jug, and two teacups with matching saucers. Each piece is lavishly adorned with gilt foliate decoration and jewelled embellishments. The teapot, milk jug, sugar bowl, and cups feature oval panels bearing ornate monograms, while the covers are finished with finely modelled floral finials. All items are contained within a rectangular brass-mounted black faux-shagreen case with a fitted velvet interior, ensuring safe transport and elegant presentation.
The reverse of the pieces is signed with spurious Sèvres marks.
The vivid cobalt ground, intricate gilding, and jewelled details demonstrate exceptional craftsmanship, while the bespoke travel case reflects the period’s attention to elegance and presentation. A truly luxurious example of late 19th century French porcelain, it is both a functional service and a statement piece.