An exceptional antique French hard-paste porcelain cabinet cup and saucer, produced by an independent Old Paris (Vieux Paris) porcelain workshop during the French Restoration period, circa 1820. Richly decorated in the Empire taste, this elegant pedestal cup embodies the refined neoclassical style that dominated French luxury porcelain during the early 19th century.

The cup is modelled in the elegant campana (urn) shape, raised on a tall pedestal foot inspired by classical Roman prototypes. Its most distinctive feature is the finely gilded loop handle terminating in a sculpted unglazed biscuit porcelain lion's mask medallion. Lion-mask handles of this type were generally reserved for the more expensive French porcelain, reflecting the additional modelling, firing and hand-finishing required for their production.

Both the cup and matching saucer are decorated with a deep pompadour red ground enriched with finely hand-painted burnished gold ornament. The Empire decoration comprises rosettes, anthemia, scrolling foliage and geometric borders. The broad matt gilt collar, fully gilded pedestal foot and richly gilded interior reflect the high standard of early 19th-century Paris porcelain.

Produced during the golden age of the Paris porcelain industry, this cabinet cup dates from the period when independent Paris workshops produced luxury porcelain for the French aristocracy and affluent bourgeoisie. Its high pedestal form, elaborate gilding and rare biscuit lion-mask handle make it a fine example of Old Paris porcelain from the French Restoration period.

Dimensions:

• Saucer: Weight 158 g. Diameter 13.7 cm. Height 2.4 cm. Cup: Weight 156 g. Height 11.6 cm. Diameter 7.4 cm. Width including handle 9.5 cm

Condition:

The saucer remains in excellent antique condition with only very minor rubbing to the gilt decoration, principally around the inner well. The cup displays expected wear to the original interior gilding from use, while the exterior decoration, gilding and porcelain remain in excellent condition. Both pieces have been examined under ultraviolet light and show no evidence of restoration.

Please study the accompanying photographs carefully as they form an integral part of this description. If you have any questions, we will be happy to answer them. The item will be shipped with full tracking and insurance. It is important to note that shipping costs include labour, packaging and postage.