Oysters have been considered a lavish and special offering to dinner guests for centuries, and decorative serving plates to present this delicacy have been sought after since the late 1800s. Found at a spring market in Paris, we adore this chic Vintage French Faience Oyster Plate with its lemon yellow glaze and playful green accents. Produced by the renowned Faiencerie d'Orfinox, the design incorporates six oyster shell shaped wells for holding an oyster, clam, or mussel with a lemon shaped well in the center for sauce, condiment or garnish.

Rich in the textural details that are a hallmark of French faience, the plate's wells are separated by a raised pattern of seaweed and its perimeter is marked by a flowing, organic-shaped rim. Subtle raised footing elevates the serving plate's precious contents and the underside is impressed with the Orfinox stamp. A marvelous addition to any tablescape or plate display, this cheerful serving piece promises to make a lovely impression wherever it is found. 

Learn More About French Faience

The term faience comes from the French name for the northern Italian town of Faenza, where painted majolica was first produced for export beginning in the Renaissance. This Italian majolica directly inspired the production of similar wares in France when King Louis XIV ordered all gold and silver tableware to be melted down in a campaign to increase the royal treasury.

The King sent his own service to be melted into coinage and his court did the same. In less than a week, France’s nobility found themselves without quality tableware and entrepreneurs quickly moved to imitate the brightly decorated earthenware of Faenza and thus, the art of French majolica or faience was born. 

Strictly limited and subject to prior sale. At time of listing, a total of 8 plates are available. In very good vintage condition. Measures 9.5" in diameter x 1"H.