Two wonderful ceramic survivors ? a Sèvres plate and teapot – have just been discovered in Devon by one of Bonhams local specialists, Sam Tuke, of the Exeter office. They will form part the next European Ceramics sale at Bonhams 101 New Bond St saleroom in London on 18th June
The teapot and plate were brought to London and examined by Bonhams Head of European Ceramics, Sebastian Kuhn, who confirmed that both items were indeed rare Sèvres pieces. With only one other known saucer and milk jug in this style known to have survived ? they sold for $25,000 in New York ? these two Devon discoveries could make between £8,000 to £10,000.
Madame De Pompadour (1721- 1764), the mistress of Louis XV loved Sèvres porcelain. This passion of hers is well documented. She was responsible for the development of the manufactory of Sèvres, which became one of the most famous porcelain manufacturers in Europe and which provided skilled jobs for the region. She was a major patron of architecture and the decorative arts like porcelain.
