What are Limoges Boxes?
Limoges signifies a type of porcelain crafted in Limoges, France, a region where the clay is rich with deposits of kaolin and feldspar and can produce a very desirable grade of porcelain. Many companies manufacture these tiny hinged boxes in Limoges, France and American importers began marketing them here in the United States in the 1950’s. Originally made popular in the 17th and 18th centuries, tabatieres, as they were often called, were designed to hold snuff, perfume, or tiny gifts. These charming boxes were especially favored by royalty! Today’s hinged enamel boxes vary in price, quality, and exclusivity. They are priced from $5 to $600 and higher! The high-end pieces are generally produced in editions ranging from 50 to 500. Boxes today can be found in the shape or image of just about anything with themes such as Travel, Babies & Children, Love & Romance, etc. They make for great gift-giving items – email us if you are looking for a certain theme or special piece.
Limoges boxes are highly collectible pieces of decorated porcelain imported from the French city of Limoges. Most Limoges boxes are decorated by hand and kiln-fired between each application of paint. Some high-end Limoges boxes are further enhanced with 22-karat gold inlay or precious stones. Metal hinges for the lids are added at a later date, which means the fit may not be the same for every Limoges box. For centuries, only Chinese artisans could produce white porcelain from a material known as hard paste clay. European craftsmen only had a soft paste clay, which left their porcelain creations dangerously brittle and rather dull in color. In the early 19th century, a deposit of kaolin (hard paste) clay was discovered in a French mountain range. French porcelain artisans were at last able to produce a product similar to Chinese porcelain in strength and color. The city of Limoges became the center of porcelain artistry, much like Dresden in Germany. Although the craftsmen working in L
Fine porcelain – each box is made of a unique type of fine porcelain originating in the Limoges area of France. The porcelain has been popular with collectors since it was first manufactured over 200 years ago and is of the highest quality. Miniature, hand-painted, unique – Each box is unique – it is a miniature, hand painted work of art so will never be identical to another box. It is a beautiful item for you to treasure or to give as a special gift to a loved one. A manageable collection – As the boxes are quite small they will not become a collection that overtakes your home. Whether you just have one or several boxes, perhaps based on a particular theme e.g. sport, a hobby or pastime; they can be displayed easily. A treasured gift – The boxes are ideally suited as special gifts for all occasions – Christmas, Easter, birthdays, births, christenings, weddings, anniversaries, “good luck”, “thank you” etc. A Certificate to show each box is genuine – Each box comes to you with a Certifi
