Description
SOLD
A set of eight octagonal dinner plates in the Indiana pattern, by Clairefontaine, France, showing the sea anchor mark used circa 1875-1878.
The faiencerie of Clairefontaine was founded in 1804 by Jean Francois Estienne in an old monastery, situated in the Haute Saone region. In 1833, the manufacture was bought by Jean Baptiste Rigal, running the pottery until 1860. Clairfontaine closed its doors in 1938.
The Clairefontaine pottery was rewarded at the Universal Exhibition of 1878 for its collection of majolica enamel items and the octagonal Indiana table service offered here. Between 1876 and 1879, the factory supplied white earthenware (undecorated baked biscuits) for the Nancy artists Charles and Emile Gallé.
The Indiana pattern dates from the Jules Sanejouand period, hence the JS of the anchor stamp, and consisted of multiple printed images. This set shows four different renderings of floral bouquets, printed in blue on a white earthenware body. The rim is bordered by a running diamond pattern. There are three plates of one image, two of another image, two of a third image, and one of a fourth floral image. Mixed together, they set a beautiful table.
Measures: 9.25 in. Diameter x .75 in. H
Marked: The Clairfontaine JS Anchor and the pattern name.
In very good antique condition with the expected fine surface crazing. Nothing to distract.
