How to recognize a real Limoges box
The name Limoges refers to porcelain made in and around the city of Limoges in central France, home to Europe's richest deposit of kaolin, the white clay that gives the porcelain its translucent glow. Because the name is valuable, imitations are common. Here is what to look for.
The marks on the base
- "Limoges France": the place of origin, stamped or painted on the underside.
- "Peint Main": French for "painted by hand." Genuine boxes are decorated by hand, not with transfers or decals.
- The workshop's mark: the initials or emblem of the atelier, such as Rochard or Artoria.
- The painter's initials: often added by the individual artisan.
Warning signs
- Marks such as "C" or "RC" beside the Limoges name usually indicate a piece made outside France.
- Printed, perfectly uniform decoration with no brushwork.
- Flimsy hinges or loose metal mounts. Real boxes have finely fitted brass hardware.
- Prices that seem too good to be true.
Our guarantee
Every box sold by Perfect Limoges is genuine French Limoges porcelain, hand-painted and marked on the base. We are an authorized dealer of Rochard and Artoria.