This is a beautiful example of an antique Roger & Gallet shaving soap jar labeled Crème de Savon pour la Barbe (“Shaving Soap Cream”),  crafted in France. The color of the transferware is a deep olive green that has faded with age, which is to be expected, but it is in good condition.

Roger & Gallet was founded in 1862 in Paris by Amand Roger and Charles Gallet.

 This exquisite porcelain advertising pot dates to approximately 1889, shortly after the company won the Grand Prix at the Paris Exposition in 1889, a fact that adds to its value for collectors.

Indented Stamp that reads RL

The exterior of the base is indented with the letters RL. (See photograph)
 In searching for the meaning of the RL, one explanation is that factories in the Limoges area supplied blanks for these jars that were then decorated according to the perfumer's design. This is what we now refer to as branding.
Marks of this style, impressed into the biscuit/paste, are typical of the way Limoges area factories and studios supplied the blanks to perfume houses in the late 19th Century — early 20th Century. This indicates that the jar was made by one of the Limoges porcelain factories, and the design was more than likely registered with the French Government.


Condition

  • Excellent overall, with a clean interior and intact ornate olive green transfer decoration.

  • No crazing or stains—unusual for its age.

  • Minor chips at the mouth rim of the base (outlined in photos) that do ot detract from the overall impression.

  • Lid fits snugly; graphics remain crisp and elegant.



Dimensions (approx.)

  • Height (with lid): ~2.5″

  • Diameter (base): ~3″

  • Diameter at widest point: ~3.5


Price:  $165.00