Found at market in Paris, we adore this pretty Antique French Faience Floral Pitcher with its delicately rendered florals and striking botanical accents. Produced by the renowned Flanders-based faïncerie, Orchies, founded by brothers Emile and Joseph L’Herminé Declercq in 1886, the exquisite jug is resplendent with the textural details that are a hallmark of fine French barbotine. 

This romantic pitcher is covered with a lovely and delicately rendered lily-of-the-valley floral motif articulated in sweet tones of green and soft yellow, with contrasting touches of earthen brown and creamy ecru to balance the richly-hued botanic palette. Grounding the jug, as if planted in tandem, an organic scalloped base gives way to the flowering lily of the valley, which reaches towards the sun. At once stately and romantic, this handsome pitcher with its brilliant crimson glazed interior, is sure to make a charming and memorable addition to the table. A special piece from one of France's most esteemed makers of majolica, it promises to serve as a vivid focal point in any setting.

Strictly one of a kind and subject to prior sale. In very good antique condition with signs of use commensurate with age. 6.5"H x 8" at widest point.

Learn More About French Faience

The term faïence 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.