Christmas is a wonderful season that we should all be fond of. Set the right Christmas mood by decorating your house with beautiful Limoges boxes handcrafted and painted in France. Limoges boxes come in a variety of shapes, including reindeer, Santa, snowman, snowflakes, manger, and much more. Christmas Limoges boxes are also good for gifting loved ones and form precious collectibles. Here are a few tips to guide you as you shop for Limoges boxes.
Check the Authenticity
Authentic Limoges porcelain boxes are only those made in Limoges, France. Even pieces crafted in Paris are not considered Limoges. Most authentic Limoges pieces bear a hand-signed signature beneath the glaze at the base. Some add to this a stamp showing the piece number and the words “Peint a La Main” which translates to “decorated by hand.” While this forms a good basis for authenticity, it is common to find imitations with similar inscriptions. Buying from a trusted dealer eliminates the chances of getting duped.
Quality of Artwork
Porcelain artwork in Limoges dates back to the 18th century following the discovery of kaolin in the French town. Their art has been perfected with time as evidenced by attention to detail paid by local artists. While some pieces may be very simple, most feature a great deal of decal carefully crafted by hand. Limoges artists have also perfected the art of blending colors to create a true art of work. Checking the degree of shades and highlights created by brush strokes should tell you the genuine from the fake.
Metal Work
The pieces of a Limoges box are joined by a thin, specially crafted piece of metal. The process of crafting and soldering these metals is delicate and no two pieces ever look the same. While imitators may try to replicate the same, the uniformity of mass production betrays them. The hinging process is equally delicate as porcelain shrinks and changes shape once fired. Hinges are specially crafted to withstand this change.
The Best Brands
Most people mistake Limoges to be a brand. On the contrary, Limoges is a city in west-central France and the capital of Limousine. Limoges porcelain comes from different brands and is made by different artisans. Some artists are so excellent that it is their work that can be considered truly antique. Buying from only trusted local importers ensures you get the best in the market.
Conclusion
Whether you are a collector or gifting a loved one, a Limoges box is a good addition to your shopping list. The beauty of these pieces sways everyone that sets eyes on them. Besides, their quality never fades. Take the necessary precaution by buying Christmas Limoges Boxes from a trusted dealer.
