Tuesday 16 July 2013

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.

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