Antique French Transferware Plate, Chinon Pattern, Choisy-le-Roi

Period
Late 19th to early 20th century, French

Size
9 inches across

A French transferware plate in the Chinon pattern, made by H. Boulenger & Cie at Choisy-le-Roi, from a five-piece table service offered individually.

The rim carries a laurel frieze printed in teal blue, paired sprigs tied off with ribbon at diamond medallions, lined along its inner edge with a narrow scalloped band. The glaze is a warm ivory.

The well shows significant staining and discoloration. There is wear consistent with age and use elsewhere on the plate. Sold as found.

Historical Context
Laurel bound with ribbon is a classical motif, carried into nineteenth century French ceramic pattern books as part of the wider neoclassical revival. H. Boulenger & Cie ran the Choisy-le-Roi works from 1863, when Hippolyte Boulenger renamed the firm, until the factory closed in 1934. Chinon takes its name from the town on the Loire, the same naming convention Sarreguemines used for its own Obernai pattern.

Styling Ideas
Hang it, or use it on a plate rail where the border does the work. It also serves well at the table for bread or a starter course.