Rochard Limoges boxes and Porcelain—for the “Perfect” Gift!

For many decades now, Rochard Limoges boxes been used synonymously for French porcelain boxes. Exquisite, classy and elegant in nature, these premium Limoges porcelain boxes are appropriate for your collection or to be gifted to someone special.  A careful research of e-catalogs can help you get your hands on well designed, hand-painted boxes-- that speak volumes about your taste for something different.

So, whether you are looking for the perfect gift for your Mom on Valentine's Day, Easter, Halloween, Thanksgiving or Christmas or desirous of arranging your precious assets into stylish boxes –think Rochard Limoges boxes. You will be pleased with your selection.

Authenticity of Rochard Porcelain

Look for the ‘Limoges, France' stamp. It is usually placed at the base of boxes and figurines. This mark guarantees authenticity and ensures that you are investing in the right place. You should also look for the lot number printed alongside --which verifies that your chosen
piece is an integral part of an exclusive/ limited edition collection crafted by a master artist.

Original use of Limoges porcelain boxes

Get ready to be surprised. The contemporary uses of these porcelain boxes are much different from their original use. Today, they are used as collector’s items or as storage space for your valuable knick-knacks. In the years gone by, these very boxes were used to keep snuff or tobacco leaves!

Given their elegant look and appeal, they were later used to ferry love epistles to one’s beloved as well. Over time, they started playing the role of engagement ring boxes and were used to keep delicate pieces of bracelets, rings and trinkets. Also used by noble ladies to carry their makeup items and other precious belongings, these boxes are rare and exquisite and bear the mark of Rochard.

About the Company

Known for manufacturing both porcelain figurines and boxes, the manufacturers have made their mark through superior craftsmanship and the best designs. The hand-painted pieces of porcelain pieces from Rochard find a pride of place amongst the most coveted collector's items of our modern-day world.

The products from this company are packaged in smart designer boxes and boast of a certificate of authenticity. Granting the utmost value for your money, the designer figurines and trinket boxes from Rochard rank amongst the top of the line products and are exclusive, authentic and priceless—in every manner possible.

With a Rochard box or figurine in your hand, you can be assured of taking home the best gift for your mom. So stop looking elsewhere and get your hands on the finest piece of porcelain in your favourite gift store. With the “Rochard’s” Mark in place, you will be investing in high quality, value and timeless worth alike. Just go for it!

How to Clean and Repair Limoges Boxes and Figurines on your Own

Your Limoges boxes and figurines--steeped in unique aesthetic charm and timeless beauty, require proper care and maintenance. These exquisitely crafted and hand-painted Limoges boxes are valuable and need to retain their intrinsic worth—especially the ones made from special Kaolin clay and other delicate raw materials.

Dust them Off

Your figurines and porcelain boxes boast of numerous curves and corners. These are the ideal resting places for dust particles and other pollutants. It’s worthwhile to trigger off a regular regime of dusting these items lightly with a soft cloth—on a regular basis. Everyday care will prevent dust accumulation and eliminate the fear of scratches and other damages.

Handling Crevices

Even though you have taken adequate care to maintain your Limoges boxes and figurines, it is quite natural for dust to percolate into the embedded crevices and cracks. Take a bowl of warm water and add a few drops of mild detergent to make a frothy cleansing solution. Just dip your Limoges figurines and boxes into the same –after brushing off the dry dust.

Soak for ten minutes and then wipe off the soapy water with a soft sponge. You may use a soft bristled dusting brush to dislodge the dust in the crevices. Soak these porcelain pieces in distilled water and then dry off with a soft cloth.

Removal of Hard Stains

It may be a bit difficult to get rid of difficult stains on your dinnerware, Limoges figurines or miniatures. Soak them in a bowl of warm water mixed with mild detergent for about 20-30 minutes. The detergent should be free from chlorine or bleach. Prolonged soaking will make the stains fade away gradually. Use a soft brush to remove the tougher stains. Soak for 5 minutes in distilled water and pat dry.

Repairing Limoges Boxes

If you can see a crack on the surface of your precious figurines then you need to invest some time to correct the same. Minor chips and cracks can be repaired easily. You just need to procure epoxy putty, razor blades/butter knife, silicon carbide paper, cold-cure lacquer and some artist brushes.

Scrape off a little amount of epoxy putty with a butter knife on the cracked/chipped off place. Dampen and smoothen out the area by taking some water on knife and pressing the same on the damaged area. Remember to be gentle and careful. After the putty dries, you can use a small piece of silicon carbide paper to smoothen it further. Apply a thin coat of cold-cure lacquer (white) with an artist's brush and leave to dry –for at least 12 hours. Acrylic paint can be used as a touch up—if necessary.

If cleaned and maintained with care, your dinnerware, Limoges boxes and trinket boxes and all other dainty pieces of porcelain can keep looking as good as new—for a longer time.

A Beginners Guide to Collecting Smartly

Collecting is many times a decision that is made unconsciously. Chances are that you simply realize one day that you have a good number of vintage Christmas ornaments over the years or a significant number of Limoges porcelain boxes that can now safely be known as a collection.

Over a period of time, you may also convert this into a conscious effort to transform your existing collection into something meaningful and probably even valuable. If this is the road you intend to tread onto, you need to make sure you do it the smart way.

1.Is this Item Collectible?

A collectible means different things to different people. For some it may mean simply storing a collection of stamps or coins that they happened to own by chance. The more serious collectors will be able to give you a more detailed story behind the challenges they faced on their quest to create their Limoges porcelain box collection or authentic miniature car collection. The prospect of an appreciation in value is usually the determinant of whether or not an item is collectible.

2.Choosing what to Collect

While no one can really tell you what to collect, remember that your selection should be something you are personally attracted to and something you will love to look at. Also, it does not always have to be one item. It could be a theme that appeals to you as well. For example, if you love elephants, you may want to pick up paintings, porcelain boxes, kitchenware and other home décor items that follow that theme.

3.Buying with your Heart

The best collections are created when collectors buy from their hearts. If there is something you truly love that is affordable, do not deter while purchasing it. Your collection needs to be something you will be able to enjoy and live with. Leave the profit making to the experts.

4.Investing in Limited Editions

Depending on the item you are collecting, you may be able to pick up some limited edition items en route. For example, you may find vintage Limoges porcelain boxes with designs that are no longer in the making, or you can hunt for limited edition wine bottles, if that is what you are collecting.

5.The Condition of the Item

As easy as it may be to ignore the hairline crack on the porcelain plate, remember that the condition of your collection will significantly influence the value of your collection. Only invest in the items that come in the best condition.

In addition to this, while collecting items remember to keep the original boxes, be well informed about how you can maintain them and conduct comprehensive research before and during the collection process to make sure you are getting value for the investment you are making.

How are your Limoges Items Made?

Every Limoges item that you come across will be unique and exquisitely made. Its appeal comes from the meticulous process that goes into creating each one of the exquisite pieces. So the next time you are out purchasing Limoges boxes, knowing the process of how it got to the shelf is a great way to realize its true value.

Step I

The first step of making these exquisite collectible trinkets involves creating a design for the molding. Artists plan these design and they draw it by hand to get an idea on how the finished product will look. The design comes with elaborate features such as the proper curves the mold will take, the color scheme, and the images it will represent.

Step II

After a satisfactory version of the design is created, a mold is developed for the Limoges boxes. This mold will be used to handle the proper shape of the box or the figurine. Considering that this mold has a temporary life a new mold is made after it has been put to use over a few dozen times

Step III

After the mold is created, a thick porcelain solution will be poured into it. Rochard Limoges boxes and other Limoges products source this porcelain from a variety of places. Fledspar and Quartz are the most commonly used forms of porcelain. These materials are extremely durable allowing the creation of thick walls for boxes and figurines.

Step IV

Once the porcelain is poured into the mold, it is left out for one day for drying. On the completion of this process, the figurine or box will be taken in by the artist for hand finishing.

Step V

In this stage, the box or figurine will be smoothed out by hand in a way that all the jagged edges are gotten rid of. After this process, the Limoges item is placed in a kiln that burns at 900 degrees Celsius.

Step VI

Now it is time to venture into the painting process. Here, the material will be dipped in enamel before it placed in a kiln again, this time at1200 degrees Celsius. Paint can be applied on the material after this process is complete.

The darker hues such as blue and the brighter shades such as red will be separately handled. As each color is added on the Limoges item, it will need to spend some time in the kiln again. The heating process for darker shades is typically more intensive than that used for lighter shades.

At the end of this process, your boxes get hinges attached to it, to create memorable collectibles. Note that every authentic Limoges item is hand painted. Most of them come with extremely elaborate detailing that adds to its monetary and aesthetic value.

Frequently Asked Questions by Limoges Box Collectors

Limoges boxes are considered to be exquisite works of art. One can find original Rochard boxes that continue to be manufactured in this region in France that goes by the name of ‘Limoges’. Like most other collectible items, there are number things to consider and learn before you call yourself a seasoned collector. Especially with so many impersonations available in the market, as a collector, you need to be able to easily differentiate between authentic Limoges boxes and fake ones.

Here are some of the most commonly raised questions by first time collectors.

1.Do all Limoges boxes come with consistent quality?

Evidently, the answer to this question is no. While most boxes are made with the help of kaolin or clay, only the ones that are made in the Limoges region are considered to be the authentic ones. Some manufacturers may use different techniques and materials to producing these boxes. This influences the standards in quality among different boxes made from the same region. Depending on the quality of the box you purchase, your price will vary. Boxes made by the most well known and authentic artists, with the help of the best quality moulds and paints will obviously come at a premium.

2.Do these boxes exist in limited editions?

You can surely find limited addition boxes. Especially vintage Limoges boxes that are made in a specific design or shape may have been manufactured only in limited numbers. Chances are that the artist disposed off the moulds after producing a specific number of boxes in that design. In most cases, you will be able to find a number under the box which indicates the quantity that it was originally manufactured in. The numbers are usually counted backwards. This means that a number 6 may be manufactured before a number 5.

3.What do you mean by American or Chinese Limoges boxes?

These are evidently not vintage Limoges boxes. A Limoges box can be considered original only if it comes from that particular region in France. This is because the porcelain used in these boxes is only available in this region. The porcelain procured from any other region in the world will give the box a very different consistency and texture. You can identify the authenticity of the box by looking for a mark at the bottom on the box. Here, you will be able to find the country of origin.

Authentic Limoges boxes make for an excellent collectors’ item for home décor as well as investment. This speciality of France is typically exported to various parts of the world. Start collecting and gifting these beautiful works of art that you can eventually pass on for generations to come!

Cleaning and Maintaining your Delicate Limoges Boxes and Figurines

All of us are charmed with the unique appeal of Limoges boxes and figurines, with their scrupulous imagery and vivid hues.  You may have been collecting these exquisite pieces for some time now or may be this is the first piece you ever received as a gift from someone special. Either ways, it is extremely crucial to keep them clean and well maintained. This will help in keeping your precious box or figurine looking brand new for years to come.

Cleaning the Crevices

Using a solution of warm water and mild detergent is the best way to clean the dirt or dust that has settled in the crevices of your trinket box or figurine. Adding a few drops of the detergent will be enough. One may use a soft cloth to remove the debris. One can even soak their box in the detergent solution for some time and then use a light sponge to wipe off any accumulated dust or dirt.

To remove tough stains from their porcelain box, soak the same in a solution of warm water and mild detergent for approximately half an hour. Ensure that the detergent one uses does not contain any bleaching agent or chlorine that can damage the imagery on these items. These stains will most likely fade away after 20 to 30 minutes. After this one should remove the item from the cleaning solution and wash it gently with distilled water. Thereafter, pat the item dry with a smooth and soft cloth and it will look as good as new.

Repairing them

One should handle these items carefully or else they can easily develop cracks on the surface. One can easily mend minor cracks and chips on the surface of your Rochard Limoges boxes or figurine by filling them up with epoxy putty using a butter knife. Once the putty has dried, one needs to smoothen it with silicon carbide paper. Applying a top coat of white-colored lacquer which is the cold-cure variety by using a soft artist’s brush helps a lot. By properly caring and maintaining these collectible items one can be sure that they will last a lifetime

A Better Idea

One should keep the collection in a curio cabinet. Because of its closed environment, they can be barred from being exposed to light and dust. Plus, it will prevent interaction with people and pets averting breakage from accidents. It further ensures that dust will not catch in the grooves and the sunlight will not make the paint fade.

These boxes are the representation of French artistry and grace of the uppermost peculiarity and style.  These splendid hand-painting and metal works boxes and figurines have long been hunted after by accumulators worldwide. If maintained well they can shoot up in their value too and preserving them is no herculean task.

Tips to Identify an Authentic Limoges Porcelain Box

A porcelain box looks simply exquisite. The production of the Limoges porcelain boxes dates back to the late 1970s. They were produced for the first time in the city of Limoges in France. The initial production used kaolin clay as the raw material for these boxes. However, later the manufacturers graduated to the use of feldspar and quartz for creating these one of a kind boxes.

These boxes are popular as gift items as well as collectibles and if you too want to have a collection of your own, it would be a wise idea to learn how to distinguish an authentic porcelain box from a fake one. Whether you are buying a box or figurine as a gift item or as a showpiece for your home or office, make sure that you keep the following tips in mind before loosening your purse strings.

Check the stamp on the box

One of the most common identification marks for a genuine Limoges porcelain box is the factory stamp that is painted by hand at the bottom of the piece. You will be able to see the ‘Limoges, France’ insignia clearly on an authentic piece. That apart, a printed stamp that reads ‘peint main’, meaning hand painted, will also be there at the bottom of the figurine or box.

You can spot a fake easily by the ‘C’ or ‘RC’ stamp printed at the bottom of it. This means that the piece is a mere replica that has been manufactured in China or the Republic of China. Do not be fooled into buying such a piece at a premium price. It would also help you to know the well-known makers of these boxes and their product stamps.

The imagery and design provide other clues

The most common designs that you will find on authentic Limoges porcelain boxes are those of fruits, flowers, people, animals, and landscapes. Check the design closely to see if it appears to be hand painted. To add to it, some common elements of imagery that you will find on a real Limoges porcelain box are colorful birds and butterflies. Most experts are trained in recognizing the imagery and the glazing on genuine kaolin clay pieces.

Compare the prices

The last and most obvious clue to the authenticity of a porcelain piece can be found in its price tag. An original porcelain box will be more expensive due to the labor-intensive manufacturing process that it entails, whereas a knockoff will be sold at dirt cheap prices.

Follow the tips mentioned above to buy an authentic piece that will last forever.. Do not be fooled into purchasing a fake one with your hard-earned money.

Interesting Facts about Traditional Limoges Boxes

Over time, traditional Limoges boxes have become a popular collectible due to their worldwide status as precious works of art. These delicate porcelain boxes were originally made of Kaolin clay and manufactured in a city called Limoges in France.

If you too have been left enchanted by the beauty of these boxes and figurines and want to start collecting them, it would be of great help for you to know some interesting facts about them. These lesser known facts about these figurines and boxes will not only help you distinguish between an authentic piece and a cheap knock off but also to build an impressive collection that is of great value.

Differentiating on the basis of quality

It may come to you as a surprise that not all traditional kaolin clay boxes are of the same quality. If you want nothing but an authentic box, you should check the stamp at the bottom of the piece and make sure that it bears a ‘Limoges, France’ insignia. This indicates that the piece has been manufactured in the region of the same name in France and is an original piece and not a cheap reproduction manufactured in China.

However, even the traditional Limoges boxes bearing the above-mentioned insignia differ in quality, as different manufacturers in the region use different production techniques and materials to make these boxes. The finer is the quality of moulds and paints used for making these figurines and pieces, the better is their quality, and the higher is their prices. Moreover, the use of meticulously designed accessories also adds to the value of the piece, thus making is more expensive.

Look for limited edition pieces for your collection

You can be sure about getting value for your money if you choose to buy a limited edition piece. This is because all authentic boxes and figurines are manufactured in a limited number after which their moulds are thrown away. An authentic piece will bear the number of the particular design at its bottom. These are rare pieces of collection/s that are long savored later.

Steer clear of American and Chinese pieces

As already mentioned above, original Limoges boxes and figurines are manufactured with a special type of porcelain that is found in France. However, the popularity of these collectibles has led to the market being flooded with several American and Chinese reproductions of the same. These are of inferior quality, have poor texture and imagery, and are no more than cheap imitations that you should steer clear of at all costs if you are building a collection of traditional Limoges boxes.

These facts about these collectible boxes should stand you in good stead while buying the product to last for years to come.

Cleaning and Maintenance of Limoges Boxes and Figurines

The unique appeal of limoges boxes and figurines with their meticulous imagery and vivid hues charms one and all. Whether you have been collecting these exquisite pieces for some time now or have just received the first piece as a gift from someone special, it is important to keep them clean and well maintained. This will keep your precious Kaolin clay box or figurine looking brand new and even add to its value.

You need to be extra careful while cleaning or repairing these delicate boxes and figurines that are made from Kaolin clay. It would help if you dust them lightly with a soft, dry cloth on a regular basis. This will prevent dust and dirt from settling on the surface and scratching it. However, while it may be easy to wipe the surface clean, it requires a little more precision to get rid of dirt and dust that accumulates in the crevices.

Cleaning the crevices of Limoges boxes and figurines

The best way to remove dirt or dust that has settled in the crevices of your Kaolin clay item, be it a figurine or a trinket box, is by using a solution of warm water and mild detergent to clean it. Just a few drops of the detergent will be enough. You may use a soft cloth to remove the debris. You may even soak your box in the detergent solution for some time and then use a light sponge to wipe off any accumulated dust or dirt.

In order to remove tough stains from your porcelain box, you need to soak the same in a solution of warm water and mild detergent for approximately half an hour. Make sure that the detergent you use does not contain any bleaching agent or chlorine that can damage the imagery on these items. The stains will most likely fade away after 20 to 30 minutes after which you should remove the item from the cleaning solution and wash it gently with distilled water. Thereafter, pat the item dry with a soft cloth and it will look as good as new.

Repairing Limoges boxes and figurines

These items require careful handling or else they can easily develop cracks on the surface. You can mend minor cracks and chips on the surface of your limoges trinket box or figurine by filling them up with epoxy putty using a butter knife. Once the putty has dried, you need to smoothen it with silicon carbide paper and apply a top coat of white-colored lacquer, the cold-cure variety, using a soft artist’s brush.  With proper care and maintenance, these collectible items are sure to last you a lifetime.

Interesting Facts about Porcelain Hinged Boxes

Ethereal, enigmatic, and enchanting-Limoges boxes present flawless works of art, which can enhance the décor and value of even the lonely display shelf at the corner of your room. Coming in delicate hinged trinket boxes and bearing striking scenery and figurines meticulously painted by dexterous hands, these pieces have become much sought-after rare treasures by vintage or antique collectors in recent times.

However, the origin of these wonderful creations goes back to several centuries in France and bears a legendary history to talk about. Here are some interesting facts about Limoges porcelain.

Chinese Porcelain and French Porcelain

Going back in time porcelain was a material synonymous with China and oblivious to the French and rest of Europe. The Chinese porcelain was inimitable at that time and in an act of imitating it, a sort of soft porcelain was produced in certain regions of the continent. This was however, no way comparable to the high quality of porcelain imported from the Chinese soils.

The advent of the special white clay Kaolin was witnessed in the 18th century when the mineral was unfathomed in the city of Limoges near St.Yrieix in France. This material was at par with the ones found in the Kao Ling region of China and had immense potential to create magnificent porcelain artwork. However, it was the creative genius of one German alchemist, who ultimately led to the creation of the fine Limoges porcelain boxes famous worldwide. This was done by carving the white mold base or whiteware through perfect blend of certain materials along with Kaolin.

Limoges Porcelain Manufacturing - Then and Now

Limoges, the city already known for its immaculate art of pottery, became the hub of Limoges porcelain manufacturing under the patronage Mr. Turgot, businessman of the then King Louis XVI. Sevres became the Royal factory producing Limoges porcelain and Limoges produced the first line of porcelain dinnerware under the commission of the Royal Court of France. The Limoges porcelain items of those times bore the words French Fleur de Lys, a symbol marking its authenticity along with royal crests, which have today become marks of appraisal for traditional Limoges items.

With the coming of the 19th century, Limoges saw blossoming of a plethora of factories producing their trademark designs of Limoges porcelain boxes and bringing the beautiful artwork to the forefront of International market. Today, apart from the traditional factories, a number of other companies have seen a booming growth as premier manufacturers and decorators of Limoges porcelain.

One of the top brands is the Rochard line of boxes known the world over for its delightful artistry and custom design. The manufacturing of these exquisite pieces is an assiduous and painstaking process engaging multiple firings done at 1400C, which is responsible for the glistening white finish of the box. The mixture of the porcelain comprises the purest quality of Kaolin clay possessing oxides of aluminum, iron, silicon and others and quartz, pulverized and feldspar.

Understanding Authentic Limoges Boxes

One of the easiest ways of testing the authenticity of Limoges boxes is to understand whether they are porcelain hinged boxes. Hinges in a Limoges box today come in copper or copper alloy materials and are specially mounted by hand, making it fit the box perfectly without being loose. They also come with decorative clasps. Other ways of gauging the genuineness is looking for the Limoges France stamp, surface decoration, artist’s name, mold number and importer’s marks or initials.

Limoges Boxes and Figurines- Things to Cherish for Vintage Collectors

Your son has just taken his first step or your daughter has won the first prize in a dance performance. It is your 25th marriage anniversary or your husband got a terrific breakthrough in his career. Whatever may be the reason for extolment Limoges boxes and figurines can be some of the most unique and exquisite things to gift.

Above all, if you are an avid collector of vintage items, you are sure to turn all heads to your display shelf simply by keeping a few of these impeccable art pieces. However, as a serious collector you need to take into consideration a few things before picking out a box simply because you like the look of it.

Know the Authentic Manufacturers: Duplicate Limoges boxes have flooded the market these days owing to the burgeoning demand of these pieces of art. Hence, in order to ensure that you are not laying your hands on a figurine done by some brick and mortar local artist, it is imperative to know some of the genuine manufacturers.

Vintage Limoges boxes were traditionally designed and manufactured by royal commission and are rare varieties possessing Fleur de Lys imprinted on them. Some of the more recent manufacturers are Haviland, Rochard, Artoria, Dubarry and the likes who are known for their excellent craftsmanship in designing the boxes.

Decoration: The surface decoration is another important criterion to look at. For adding some of the immaculate hand décor varieties, look out for the label Peint Mein. Alternatively, you can also try out a combination of hand work and decals where the highlighting streaks are done by hand and which will have Rehausse Main as their designation.

Detailing and Painting: Authentic Limoges boxes are known for their flawless detailing whereby artists use their creative clout to make intricate designs with one color taken at a time. When one shade is done with, a firing process is applied prior to use of another color. Hence, be aware of designs, which depict mere daubing of colors. The proportion and pragmatism of varying hues are ultimately used for putting up a specific scenery or image.

Collector’s Collection: If you wish to add to your collection of Vintage items, it is worthwhile to look for miniature sets of Limoges tea and coffee designed by a particular factory or artisan. Alternatively, you can also accumulate the items in tune with a particular theme, occasion, or animals.

Limited Edition Boxes: The Limited Edition Limoges boxes are truly valuable pieces of art that not only enhances your treasure trove of collectibles but can also bring you huge profits at auctions later on. If you want to add a Limited edition to your display closet, look for one, which is restricted to a specific designer. Authentic and accurate limited designs are unique in their mold designs since the detailing on the miniature is done completely by hand and by a single artisan. You can identify a limited edition from the registered trademark signature of the particular artisan.

Genuine Limoges boxes are indeed priceless treasures to cherish and it is the assiduous artwork done by hand which catapults their prices. Hence, do not be overwhelmed to come across such boxes at throwaway prices. They are likely to be duplicate ones, and will add no value to your collectibles.

Identifying the Various Marks on Traditional Limoges Boxes

From the time when the beautiful damsels of the European nobility used to flaunt their trinket snuff boxes in the 19th century, French porcelain had been synonymous with the exquisitely manufactured and painted Limoges boxes.

The factory in Sevres was the first to witness the blossoming of this beautiful piece of craftwork from white clay called Kaolin molded and designed by dexterous artisans Today, you find a plethora of manufacturers creating their own trademark designs using the distinctive French Porcelain produced in the Limoges area of France.

However, just like any other work of art, the Limoges boxes have also become the butt of fraudulence with the result that the market is flooded with fake boxes obtained at unbelievingly low prices. In order to understand the value and authenticity of Limoges boxes, you have to be aware of the marks that come on the traditional limoges boxes.

Factory or Maker: The maker’s mark denotes the factory where the white Kaolin is turned into whiteware or blank through casting and firing processes. The impression is made on the porcelain prior to the above processes. It can be seen under the glaze usually bearing the words “Limoges France” or numbers, colors or scripts as preferred by the manufacturer. You might also come across specific symbols like butterfly, bird, or star.

Decorator’s Mark: The decorator’s mark is visible over the glaze and may come in handwritten, stamped or printed forms. Decorating companies generally go for printed or stamped marks, while individual artisans prefer writing by hand. In case where the maker and decorator are same, the manufacturer generally adds a second type of mark for the boxes it manufactures as well as decorates and a different mark for the pieces, which it only manufactures and sells as undecorated whiteware.

The decorator’s mark reflects the way the Limoges porcelain was designed or decorated by the artisan. Hence, the words Peint Main denotes that the decoration was done completely by hand and Rehausse Main means the highlighting streaks were made by hand along with a combination of decals. On the other Décor Main depicts that some part of the decoration had been created by hand. The stamp of the artist might be inscribed in initials or signature form.

Importer’s Mark: Limoges porcelain may be associated with thousands of companies manufacturing these enticing pieces of art. However, there are very few companies who have shot up as being top-notch manufacturers and importers, giving the items their brand name. Some of the famous importers Artoria Limoges, Rose Décor, Chamart Exclusives Inc, Rochard Limoges boxes, Sinclair, La Gloriette, Chanille and the likes. The peculiar designs on the porcelain also point at specific manufacturers. For example fruit designs on Rochard boxes take up larger dimensions that those by others.

Mold Marks: The boxes are cast in three-dimensional molds, which are immaculately created from the Kaolin clay. A single mold is made to create a few boxes with unique designs. However, the number of boxes from each mold cannot exceed 100 since by that time the mold’s detailing is eradicated. The mold number is also indicated in each trinket box.

Limoges boxes of Limited editions have special registered trademark as well as the signature of the particular artist.

Cleaning and Repairing Limoges Porcelain Boxes and Other Items

The exquisitely crafted and hand-painted Limoges boxes splashed with the right hues with apt proportion and precision have unique aesthetic charm. And if maintained and cleaned with care the porcelain boxes made from special Kaolin clay can shoot up in their value too. Although delicate, maintaining the Limoges porcelain boxes or dinnerware is no herculean task. However, it is worthwhile to make a more or less regular regime of dusting the items lightly with a soft cloth. Everyday wiping off the dust will prevent the boxes and figurines to catch dust or get a scratch.

Removing Dirt from Crevices

Although you might have been careful enough to care for and maintain your precious Limoges items, it is natural at times for dust to seep inside the cracks and crevices and get embedded. In such cases, you just need to take a bowl filled with warm water and use a few drops of very mild detergent in it. It is best to dust off the external dirt of the Limoges boxes before dipping it into the soap water.

Wipe and rinse off with a soft cloth or light sponge. You can also wipe off accumulated dirt in crevices using a soft bristled dusting brush, dipping it in the soap water and gently brushing off the dust. The box or piece then needs to be soaked once more in clean distilled water and dried with a soft cloth.

Removing Hard Stains

For erasing off difficult stains, the miniature or even Limoges figurines or dinnerware should be soaked in a padded sink or bowl of warm water mixed with two tablespoons of mild detergent for about 20 to 30 minutes. Be careful to read the ingredients of the detergent ensuring that it is free of chlorine and bleach. You will be able to see the stains gradually disappearing after which the items need to be washed in clean distilled warm water and patted dry.

Repairing Different Types of Limoges Boxes

Your son has just dropped your precious Limoges box and caused a crack on its surface. Do not worry, for such minor cracks and chips can be repaired without much hassle. For this, you need to get some epoxy putty, razor blades or butter knife, artist brushes, cold-cure lacquer and silicon carbide paper of the finest grade.

Once you have all the tools, scrape a small amount of the epoxy putty with the help of a butter knife on the chipped off place. The putty then requires some dampening and smoothening by taking some water on the edges of the knife and pressing it along the damaged area gently. When the putty gets completely dry take some silicon carbide paper to further smoothen it. Take the fine bristled and soft artist’s brush and apply a coat of white cold-cure lacquer and keeping the box in a safe place for 12 hours to dry it completely. If some patterns need to be filled up get some acrylic paints of the necessary colors and use them to finely fill the missed cracks with brush sizes ranging from 00 to maximum of 3.

Remember mending and maintaining your Limoges boxes in time helps you keep up their true value and make them some of the most treasured additions to your showcase.

Authentic Limoges Boxes - Perfect Array of Gift Ideas for Your Mother

Are you worried about what to gift your mother on her birthday or how to express your love towards her on Mother’s Day? The woman who picked out the choicest of things for your needs or brought home your favorite doll and surprised you with a lavish birthday party definitely deserves something special and unique. And what can be a more exclusive and exquisite a gift than a Limoges box?

Beautifully painted in meticulous designs by hand atop special white clay called Kaolin from the soils of France, these charming works of art are indeed rare and precious treasures to cherish for life. In fact, authentic Limoges boxes by such top-notch manufacturers like Rochard are still made in Limoges. Here are some Limoges box gifting ideas for your mother.

Pets and Hobbies: 

If your mother is a dog-lover, how about presenting her with a Limoges box, with the figurine of her favorite dog breed? Mothers who are music mavens will simply fall in love with the magnificent musical collection in shapes of piano, drum sets, guitars, violins, harps, and what not. Your mother has always shown her culinary skills in preparing delectable dishes for you.

So just pick out a miniature cookbook along with a pan Limoges box or a tiny barbeque grill as a means of expressing your gratitude for all the lovely recipes. Gardening, reading books, sports- you can choose anything that your mother is fond of from the delightful line of luxury Limoges collection.

Ladies Accessories: 

Women are fascinated by accessories of all sorts - from shoes and moccasins to bags to cosmetics, perfumes and loads more. And you can find all of these from the vast repertoire of ladies accessories Limoges figurines. The themes are exquisitely presented through the ethereal designs celebrating the feminine spirit and passion. For fashion freak mothers the Anne Fashion Collection or the Beatrice Fashion Collection are just the apt gifts with the right craft of colors. If your mom is crazy about bags and shoes, gift her with the bewitching Bloomingdale’s Little Brown Bag or the Apple Blossom Shoebox with a pair of vibrant red shoes.

 

Travel, Wine and Beverages:

Does your mother love to be on the move, traveling the myriad places on the globe? Gift her with travel themes picked out of famous attractions worldwide such as Eiffel Tower and Big Ben or a Beach basket and Brown Sea Shell. Celebrate Mother’s Day or your parents’ anniversary with Champagne and Caviar Limoges box or a Cocktail Shaker and Wine Barrel- the list remains endless.

Whatever be the theme that you choose, Limoges boxes are sure to bring a smile on her face. The trinket boxes can be used variedly to keep jewelry, medicines, small items of importance and above all as delightful repository of decorative collectibles. With their aristocratic history, grand designs, and themes depicting everything under the sky, Limoges boxes are indeed one of the best gifts to present the woman who brought you to this world.

How to Care and Maintain Your Limoges Porcelain Boxes

Whether you are passionate about collecting antique items or love adorning your home, the Limoges porcelain boxes can be valuable additions to your home vintage collections. While the beauty of these boxes with their impressive designs and exquisite artistry is something to treasure, they can also give you handsome returns at auction later on.

Whatever be your purpose of collecting these pieces of art, maintaining, and taking proper care of them is essential to keep their true worth intact. Peek at some of the things that you can do for maintaining your Limoges boxes.

Opening the Limoges Box

The very first thing that you need to pay attention to is to ensure that you do not end up damaging the hinges of the box while opening it. These are delicate items and should be handled with extreme care. When opening the box keep the metal clasp in the front and place your thumbnails in between the metal rims, pulling them gently in opposite directions.

Remember, the metal clasp is for the purpose of decoration and therefore pulling it may cause it to tamper. You should never use any sharp object like knife while trying to open the box, nor try to pull the porcelain. Just as you had been gentle in opening the box be considerable in closing it too.

General Care and Maintenance

Like any objects of décor at your home, your Limoges porcelain products also require little bit of regular maintenance which can be as trivial as mere dusting. However, since the objects are ethereal, you have to use a soft cloth to ensure that the painting is not maimed or scratched in the process. For occasions, you can simply wipe off the additional dust with a soft cloth.

Removing Stains

Upset about those stains, which marred the beauty of your glistening white Limoges box?  Do not worry, for there is a remedy for this too. For this, all you need to do is fill up a dishpan or a sink with sufficient padding on sides with warm water and 2 tablespoons of mild detergent or dishwashing liquid along with a one-fourth cup of cleaning powder.

The latter should be free from ammonia, chlorine, bleach and solvents as these ingredients are harsh and a strict no-no on such delicate porcelain figurines and boxes. Let your porcelain boxes to soak for about 20 to 30 minutes when you can see the stains disappearing. If the stains are deep-rooted and have gone inside crevices, you can go for a repetition of the process. Once the stains disappear, simply wash the items with warm water, and pat dry with a soft towel.

One final tip, it is always worthwhile to test whether your Limoges boxes are not getting tampered further and is compatible with the solution. Test it out with a soaked cotton ball on a smaller area.

Getting to know your Limoges Porcelain Boxes

Catch a movie portrayed at the background of 18th century Europe and you are sure to notice the beautiful white snuffboxes, intricately designed, which the damsels flaunt. Those are the exquisite Limoges porcelain boxes made of special white clay known as Kaolin, which became predominant in Europe in the latter part of the 18th century.

The clay is only found in and around the region of Limoges in France and is at par with their Chinese counterparts with regard to excellence in quality. Today, this impeccable porcelain is produced by Limoges factories, as well as individual artisans. These people are dexterous at carving such exclusive works of art, in the Limoges city and region. Here is a sneak peek into the history and other special aspects of a Limoges porcelain box.

What is a Limoges Box

Limoges boxes are beautifully hand-crafted and hand-painted objects made of porcelain with the hard white clay Kaolin forming one of the main ingredients. These come in a variety of decorative pieces such as those portraying musical instruments, religion, hearts, games, fruits and vegetables, animals, wine and spirits, monuments and what not. They are miniatures mostly ranging between 2 to 3 inches in size and some as small as 1 inch by half inch. There are limited editions also which bear special numbers mentioned along with the artist name under the boxes.

History of Limoges \ Boxes

Before Kaolin, a silicate of aluminum was unfathomed in the region of Limoges in France, near St. Yrieix; the Europeans were completely oblivious of the fact that any such ingredient could be found. Hence, for many long years they had to be contented by producing soft paste porcelain, which was no way near to the excellent quality porcelain that China was proud about.

The production of Kaolin porcelain won the fancy of the mistress of King Louis XV Madame De Pompadour who in turn set up The Royal Factory of Sevres, which became famous throughout the globe for producing the finest porcelain. By the 19th century many Limoges factory had started blossoming because of the high demand of the boxes among the nobility and the low production cost due to the easy availability of wood reserves and labor.

Gradually the Limoges Hinged Boxes came into vogue and were used by prestigious personalities for keeping their precious items like gold, diamond, rings, and even tobacco and love letters.

How are Limoges Boxes Manufactured

Manufacturing a Limoges Porcelain box is a time-consuming and meticulous process whereby the assiduous artists create a master mold, which is then worked on for making designs with paints and colors, all done by hand. The porcelain mold thus created is then made to undergo several rounds of firings and glazing at 1400C for lending the objects the immaculately white finish. The process culminates in placing the metal hinges for operating the boxes.

With their impeccable designs and exquisite demeanor, the Limoges Porcelain boxes make the perfect gift for any occasion, whatsoever.

Collecting Vintage Limoges Boxes as Objects to Cherish

Rochard Limoges boxes are some of the finest pieces of art that can be true items of beauty to your treasure trove of collectibles. The beautiful things carved in exquisite figurines and miniature models have created much mayhem in the recent years with connoisseur collectors of vintage and antique items going gaga over these French porcelain trinket boxes. However, the world is fraught with duplicate reproduction of original masterpieces and the Limoges boxes are no exception. If you are a first-time buyer of the vintage Limoges boxes, here is a quick guide to buying genuine stuff.

Features of Genuine Limoges Boxes

In order to ensure that you are keeping your hands on a genuine Limoges boxes, you need to be enlightened about the features and attributes, which mark off a true Limoges product.

• One of the main specialties of a Limoges box is its immaculate artistry and painting which is exclusive painted by hand and is in perfect proportion depicting an intricate detailing with portrayal of particular scenery. Hence, if you notice the décor of the items to be botched and slipshod, you can bet you were eyeing a fake Limoges box.
• Antique Limoges boxes bear no flaws and to ensure that even the spelling of the name “Limoges” is correct, you need to carry a magnifying glass.  This will also reveal things like the manufacturer’s or artist’s name or symbols which reflect the same. In fact, it is essential to be aware of the various symbols that authorized manufacturers of Limoges products use such as butterfly for R. Laporte over the initials RL and L, bird for Martin Freres and Brothers, Rochard for Rochard Limoges boxes and the likes.
• Contrary to popular belief real Limoges boxes are extremely light in weight, while giving out a shine which is typically found in Limoges products only. You also need to pay careful attention to the hinges which should be perfectly smooth while opening and closing.
• If you are looking for limited edition Limoges boxes, they should bear numbers, which depict the number of molds manufactured and the number that every piece of mold came with in the production.

Other Things to Consider
 

For the most genuine Vintage Limoges boxes of impeccable quality, go for the ones bearing the words “peint mein” which means the painting was performed completely by hand or “décor mein” that signifies decals or transfers were used, which were however, positioned by hand. You can also witness differences in the makes and designs of different artists and factories. While those of Artoria or Rochard use up brisk painting with splashing of bright hues, boxes by Chanille or Dubarry bear a more expressionistic approach with warmer colors.

Because of the huge amount of detailing which goes on in the creation of these wonderful pieces of art, it is obvious that Limoges boxes will cost you a handsome amount. However, once you have one in your repertoire of collectibles, you are sure to go hunting for more, even if that means shelling out several more dollars.

FAQs on Limoges boxes for collectors

Limoges boxes are beautiful works of art. The original Rochard Limoges boxes are still manufactured in the region called ‘Limoges’ in France. Like all collectible items, there are many questions one might have about these items in order to familiarise one’s self with this unique work of art. Also, many impersonations also available in the market, therefore one must know how to distinguish the original from the fake. Here’s a list of some of the most frequently asked questions about Rochard Limoges boxes that collectors and enthusiasts seek for -

1.Are all Limoges boxes of the same quality?

No, they are not. Limoges boxes are made using white clay or kaolin, and all boxes which are manufactured in the Limoges region of France are indeed called authentic Limoges boxes. However, different manufacturers do use different materials and techniques for making these boxes, therefore the quality may vary between these. Along with the quality, naturally, the price would vary too. A Limoges box manufactured by the best and authentic artists, using fine quality moulds, paints and additional accessories would naturally cost one more than a box made using cheaper means.

2.Are Limoges boxes available in limited editions?

Yes they are. Vintage Limoges boxes made in a particular shape or design may have a limited number because usually the manufacturers throw away the moulds after these many are manufactured. At the bottom of the Limoges box, you can usually find a number which indicates the number for that particular design. The numbers are counted backwards, so a box number 5 is usually manufactured before box number 4 and so forth. However, you can find numbers greater than 500 which indicate that as many moulds could have been used to manufacture that particular design.

3.What are Chinese and American Limoges boxes?

They are not Vintage Limoges boxes for one. A Limoges box can only be called an original Limoges box if it is manufactured in Limoges of course! The special porcelain which is used in the original Limoges boxes is only found in the French region, and the porcelain used to make such boxes anywhere else in the world is different in texture, consistency and other factors to its original counterpart from France. There is a specific identification mark which you can find on the bottom of an original Limoges box which can distinguish it from an imitation. Be sure to look out for it.

Limoges boxes are amongst the most popular gift and decoration items, and a specialty from France which is exported to most countries around the world. They are beautiful, rare and exquisite works of art.

Best ways to use Limoges boxes

Original Limoges trinket boxes are some of the most famous collectibles that art lovers appreciate throughout the world. These beautiful miniature boxes are named after the region of France in which they were manufactured. Available in a wide array of shapes and colours, these trinket boxes are great gifts to give to family and friends for all occasions. They can also be used for a variety of other creative purposes. Some of them are:

1.As a ring box:  Whether you are proposing to a loved one with an engagement ring, or carrying the bride and groom’s wedding rings to them on their big day as the ring bearer, trinket boxes can be used as beautiful  places to place the ring to be presented. Since they come in a variety of shapes, one can find a shape that’s just right for the occasion- perhaps a heart-shaped box for a loved one or a chocolate shaped box if your lover has a sweet tooth!

2.As a snuff box: Snuff is a kind of mild tobacco which is a powdery substance available in many flavours, such as menthol, spice, cinnamon, mint, fruit, camphor etc. If you are planning a gift for someone who is an ardent snuff fan, you may consider giving a Limoges box which as be used by them as a snuff box. Since Limoges boxes are small, one can easily fit it into ones pocket as a snuff box and carry it around wherever they may go.

3.As a mini perfume bottle: Trinket boxes serve as great scent cases as carried in this way, the scent becomes extremely personalised and one doesn’t have to use common bottles available in the market! You can simply pour the liquid into the snuff box and apply it with your fingertips. Again, since Limoges boxes and small and portable, it can be carried easily in ladies’ purses and taken around with them. It also keeps people guessing as to what perfume brand you are wearing if you carry the scent in your own personalised container!

4.As a bonbonniere: A bonbonniere is a small box used for carrying confectionery or chocolate. According to an ancient European tradition, these were distributed to guests at weddings as gifts and contained small delicacies, such as expensive chocolates or mints. Italians used to distribute almonds in them as well at their weddings.

Limoges trinket boxes are not only beautiful, but serve as wonderful gifts as well. They have a multitude of uses, and almost everyone can find a special place for them in their home.

How to Identify an Authentic Limoges Porcelain Box

The Limoges Porcelain box was first created in the late 1700’s in Limoges, France. They started out to be made of kaolin, a form of hard-paste porcelain before graduating to quartz and feldspar.

These boxes make as great gift items or collectibles that can be placed on your dresser, desk or simply displayed on a shelf in your home. If you plan on collecting these Limoges porcelain figurines or boxes, it is then important for you to identify the authentic ones from their imitation counterparts.

1.Look for the Stamp - The first thing to do when you come across a porcelain box is to train your eye on the bottom part. An authentic box is likely to have a hand-painted factory stamp with the ‘Limoges, France’ insignia. There should also be a printed stamp which says ‘hand-painted’ or ‘peint main’. Remember that a box with a stamped ‘C’ or ‘RC’ next to the insignia suggests that the box is an imitation manufactured in the Republic of China.

2.Observe the Design - Assess the design of the box. If it consists of animals, landscapes, people, etc., the work should look hand-painted. If the design on your box is floral, it will be a transfer decal that has been specially designed by the factory. If your design is of a fruit, it is important to be aware that Rochard Limoges porcelain makers use fruit designs that are larger than the ones used by others.

3.Observe the Glazing – Again assess the box closely. Authentic Limoges porcelain boxes are designed over and under a layer of glaze. While the glaze is typically used to protect the box, makers from Limoges also use it to add artistic effects to their pieces. This glaze can be easily identified by their shine or crackled effect.

4.Getting to Know the Makers - There are also a number of makers that produce Limoges and do not include the name in their mark. Get a list of these makers and their peculiarities so that you can identify their work.

5.Recognizing their Imagery- Also learn to recognize genuine Limoges imagery. Many manufacturers place pictures of butterflies, birds and other elements into their mark.

Finally, it is obvious that the cost between the imitation piece and the original Rochard Limoges will differ. Since the latter are made using various hand-processed manufacturing steps, they take a bit longer to be produced. This process is what one is typically paying for while investing in an original Limoges box.